Kolkata Professional Defrauded of Rs 16 Lakh in Sophisticated Job Scam
A 51-year-old technology professional from Kolkata's New Town area has become the latest victim of an elaborate online job fraud, losing a staggering Rs 16 lakh to criminals posing as a legitimate placement agency. The incident serves as a stark warning about the growing sophistication of cyber criminals targeting job seekers in India.
The Elaborate Scam Unfolds
The victim, who resides in Action Area II of New Town, was initially contacted by what appeared to be a professional placement agency based in Connaught Place, New Delhi. The fraudsters promised him a top-level finance position at a multinational corporation, presenting what seemed like a golden career opportunity.
Between August 4 and September 14, the victim made seven separate transactions totaling Rs 16 lakh to the fake agency. The payments were supposedly for various processing fees and other administrative costs associated with the high-profile job placement.
Educational Program Requirements Added Credibility
To make the scam more convincing, the fraudsters conducted what appeared to be a legitimate online interview process. After the interview, they informed the victim that he had been shortlisted for the position but needed to complete specific educational requirements.
The company insisted he enroll in the CFO Program from Imperial Business School and the Certificate of Directors (UK) course. Crucially, they assured him that all educational expenses would be reimbursed once he joined the company, making the financial outlay seem temporary and justified.
The Scam Collapses
The elaborate scheme began to unravel in September when the company's official email IDs suddenly stopped functioning. A scheduled interview in Mumbai was abruptly cancelled without explanation, raising the victim's suspicions.
When repeated attempts to contact both the company and the placement agency went unanswered, the victim realized he had been duped. He officially lodged a police complaint on Wednesday, providing authorities with details of the seven transactions and all communication with the fraudsters.
Growing Concern Over Online Job Frauds
This case highlights the increasing sophistication of online job scams targeting educated professionals in India. Cyber criminals are now creating elaborate fake companies, conducting professional interviews, and designing multi-stage processes to lend credibility to their schemes.
Authorities advise job seekers to verify the authenticity of placement agencies through official channels, avoid making upfront payments for job placements, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. The Kolkata Police cyber crime unit has begun investigating the case and is tracking the digital trail left by the fraudsters.
