In a case highlighting the dangers of Instagram scam, a US woman named Cherish became the victim of a fraudulent jewelry sale. Lured through an Instagram interaction (possibly), Cherish believed she was purchasing exquisite jewelry worth a staggering Rs 6 crore from a shop owner in Rajasthan. However, upon returning to the US and having the pieces appraised, her dream purchase turned into a nightmare. The “precious” jewelry was revealed to be a cheap imitation, valued at a mere Rs 300.
Cherish, understandably outraged, confronted the seller in Jaipur and filed a police complaint. This incident serves as a stark warning for international buyers, especially those who may be targeted through social media platforms like Instagram.
The dangers of online scams extend beyond fake jewelry. In another concerning incident, a businessman from Nagpur fell victim to an investment scam advertised on Instagram. The scam promised hefty returns through a user-friendly, eye-catching, and informative blog post (a common tactic used by scammers). Unfortunately, the businessman lost a significant sum of Rs 87 lakh after falling for the deceptive offer.
Here are some tips to avoid Instagram scam:
- Be wary of unsolicited contacts or messages, especially those promising unbelievable deals.
- Do your research! Verify the seller’s legitimacy before making any purchases.
- Never share your personal or financial information on social media platforms.
- If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut and avoid rushing into transactions.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from becoming the next victim of an Instagram scam. Remember, if you see something suspicious, report it to Instagram immediately.