Hyderabad man duped in WhatsApp scam
A 27-year-old Hyderabad government employee was tricked out of ₹2,05,500 in a WhatsApp scam. The fraudster pretended to be his friend stuck at Delhi airport for carrying foreign currency, even mimicking the friend's voice on a call. The story started with a message from a UK number and quickly escalated.
Victim transfers money to 'IT officer'
The scammer introduced the victim to someone claiming to be an Income Tax officer, who asked for ₹55,500 to "clear" his friend's name—then demanded another ₹1.50 lakh. After transferring both amounts, the victim realized something was off and reported it online.
Police remind everyone to stay alert
Hyderabad police are investigating and remind everyone that government officials will never ask for payments over WhatsApp or phone. If you spot anything suspicious or fall victim to cybercrime, call 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in for help.