With Deepavali across the nook, firecracker gross sales in Tamil Nadu are seeing a big rise. Nonetheless, the festive spirit can also be turning into a goal for scammers who’re exploiting the season by providing seemingly irresistible offers on crackers. Trade insiders have reported that fraudulent operators are preying on unsuspecting patrons via misleading on-line platforms, resulting in a number of circumstances of scams being reported.
Based on a report on IANS, quite a few complaints have emerged concerning pretend web sites promoting deep reductions and profitable provides on firecrackers. The Tamil Nadu Cyber Police has taken discover of the state of affairs and issued a warning to the general public about these fraudulent schemes. To date, 17 circumstances have been registered on the Nationwide Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in).
Misleading Web sites and Faux Adverts: A Festive Lure
Police officers defined that scammers are creating pretend web sites that carefully resemble professional on-line shops. They typically promote heavy reductions and “freebies” to draw prospects. The modus operandi sometimes entails luring prospects with engaging social media commercials on common platforms equivalent to Fb, Instagram, and WhatsApp, as per the report. These advertisements declare to supply vital markdowns on firecrackers, tapping into the festive enthusiasm and pleasure.
As soon as potential victims are attracted, they’re directed to web sites that look real however are designed to gather funds and private info. In some situations, scammers preserve communication via WhatsApp or cellphone calls, making the operation seem genuine.
Rising Issues Amid Festive Cheer
The Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has urged the general public to train warning whereas buying firecrackers on-line. Authorities have emphasised verifying the legitimacy of internet sites and avoiding provides that appear too good to be true. Customers are suggested to search for safe fee gateways, examine for correct web site credentials, and report suspicious websites to the cyber police.
A senior officer with the cyber wing instructed IANS, “Scammers prey on festive sentiments, creating enticing commercials that promise heavy reductions. As soon as they’ve secured funds, they disappear, leaving patrons empty-handed.”
The police have assured that efforts are being intensified to determine and take down fraudulent websites and that they’re actively monitoring on-line exercise to curb this rising menace.