Woman loses Rs 1.94 lakh after clicking on a job-related link on Instagram

In today’s world, finding part-time work online has become popular. Many young people are on the lookout for flexible job opportunities that fit their schedules. However, not everything that glitters is gold, as a recent case highlights how one woman’s search for a part-time job turned into a financial nightmare.

Archana, a 25-year-old woman, was recently targeted in an online job scam that cost her Rs 1.94 lakh. Keep reading to know the full story.

Archana was actively browsing online for part-time job options when she came across a link on Instagram that seemed to promise high earnings. The ad promoted work under the name “Amazon Freshers Job in India,” which appeared legitimate at first glance.

Also read: Businesswoman loses Rs 5cr to scammers posing as law officials: Here’s how it happened

After clicking the link, she received a message on WhatsApp which claimed that by investing money in this opportunity, she could earn substantial profits. Persuaded by this potential, Archana was encouraged to send funds to various UPI IDs provided by unknown individuals, reports TOI.

From October 18 to October 24, she transferred amounts in stages, eventually totalling Rs 1.94 lakh. She believed that her initial investment would soon bring in promised returns. Unfortunately, neither the promised earnings nor her invested amount was returned. 

Realising that she had been tricked, Archana filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station.

Also read: Tamil Nadu doctor loses Rs 76.5 lakh after clicking on a YouTube ad: Here’s how the scam unfolded

How to protect yourself from such scams

• Verify job sources: Always double-check job postings, especially those found on social media. Genuine companies usually post jobs on official websites or trusted platforms.
• Avoid upfront payments: Be wary of job offers that require any investment upfront. Real employers pay you for your work; they don’t ask you to pay them first.
• Look for red flags: High promised returns on investments, especially in job ads, should be a red flag. Scammers often use this tactic to lure people into transferring money.
• Report suspicious activity: If you encounter any suspicious job offers or messages, report them immediately to the cyber police or the social media platform.