In a stark reminder that no one is immune to online deception, renowned Tamil music composer GV Prakash Kumar has become the latest high-profile victim of a social media scam. The composer, known for his generosity, was tricked into sending money after a fraudster on X (formerly Twitter) crafted a heartbreaking but entirely fabricated story.
How the Emotional Scam Unfolded on X
The incident began when a user on X directly messaged GV Prakash Kumar with a plea for financial help. The scammer claimed their mother had passed away and they urgently needed funds to conduct the final rituals. Moved by the emotional appeal, Prakash, who is known for his active and responsive presence on social media, quickly transferred Rs. 20,000 to the provided account.
However, the plea was a complete fabrication. Alert users on the platform soon exposed the fraud. They revealed that the photograph used by the scammer to supposedly show the deceased mother was an old image sourced from the internet. The picture was reportedly taken from a video posted online several years ago, and the woman in question had actually died back in 2022.
A Generous Nature Exploited by Con Artists
GV Prakash Kumar, famed for his musical scores in films like 'Veyil' and 'Darling', has built a reputation for being approachable and charitable, often interacting with fans and responding to calls for aid. This very willingness to help, however, made him a target. The incident highlights a dangerous trend where well-intentioned generosity on social media can be a double-edged sword, easily manipulated by con artists looking for a quick profit.
Screenshots of the composer's bank transfer were later leaked online, providing concrete evidence of the scam. This act of fraud not only results in financial loss but also complicates genuine appeals for help in the future, eroding public trust.
A Wake-Up Call for All Social Media Users
While the monetary loss for Prakash may not be colossal, the episode serves as a critical warning for every social media user. Cybersecurity experts and vigilant netizens emphasize the non-negotiable rule: always verify before you trust. This is especially crucial for sensitive topics involving death, medical emergencies, or family crises—common emotional triggers used by fraudsters.
The case underscores that social media fraud does not discriminate; it can ensnare common citizens and celebrities alike. Scammers are increasingly sophisticated in leveraging human sentiment to bypass caution. The key takeaway is to pause and conduct due diligence, no matter how compelling the story, before initiating any financial transaction online.
