A Sikar resident has allegedly lost ₹4.08 lakh after responding to a social media advertisement that promised unusually high prices for old ₹1, ₹2 and ₹5 currency notes. According to his complaint, the people behind the offer later demanded multiple payments but never delivered the promised amount.
Social Media Advertisement Led to the Alleged Fraud
According to the complaint filed with the Cyber Police Station, the victim, identified as Girish, came across the advertisement on social media around one to one-and-a-half months ago.
The advertisement claimed that holders of old ₹1, ₹2 and ₹5 notes could receive significantly higher amounts for them. After clicking on the advertisement, Girish was contacted by individuals who allegedly continued the conversation over the phone.
Payments Were Demanded Under Different Pretexts
The callers allegedly told Girish that they would purchase his old notes at a high price. Instead of making a payment to him, however, they reportedly began asking him to transfer money for processing and other charges.
Girish made several payments through PhonePe to different numbers. According to the complaint, the total amount transferred reached ₹4,08,746. Despite these payments, he did not receive the promised money for his old notes.
Cyber Police Begin Investigation
After realising that he had allegedly been defrauded, Girish approached the Cyber Police Station and filed a complaint.
The mobile numbers reportedly used by the people involved were subsequently switched off, making them unreachable. Police registered a case based on the complaint and began investigating the alleged cyber fraud.
A Warning About High-Return Social Media Offers
The incident highlights the risks associated with online advertisements promising unusually high returns. Offers involving old currency, collectibles or other items can appear attractive, but demands for advance payments or unexplained processing charges should be treated cautiously.
For individuals and businesses, maintaining proper financial records and following basic verification practices can also help identify suspicious transactions. bookkeeping services in india can support organised financial record-keeping, although professional bookkeeping cannot by itself prevent every type of online fraud.
Conclusion
The Sikar case serves as a reminder to verify online offers carefully before transferring money. When an unknown person asks for repeated payments before delivering a promised benefit, users should exercise caution and consider reporting suspicious activity to the appropriate cybercrime authorities.