Two Bengaluru residents fell victim to a lottery scam, losing a total of Rs 13.71 lakh. The victims were identified as a 60-year-old NGO worker from Valagera Halli and a 52-year-old farmer from Maruthi Nagar.
Details of the Fraud
The NGO worker lost Rs 7.45 lakh, while the farmer was duped of Rs 6.26 lakh. According to police, the fraudsters contacted the victims via phone and convinced them that they had won a large lottery prize. To claim the prize, the victims were asked to pay various fees and taxes.
How the Scam Unfolded
The scammers used sophisticated tactics to gain the trust of the victims. They provided fake documents and even set up a bogus website to make the scheme appear legitimate. The victims made multiple payments through online transfers and cash deposits over several weeks.
Police Investigation
A case has been registered at the local police station under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. Police are investigating the phone numbers and bank accounts used in the scam. They have urged the public to be cautious of such fraudulent schemes.
Preventive Measures
Authorities advise citizens to verify any lottery or prize claims through official channels. They also recommend not sharing personal or financial information with unknown callers. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the cyber crime helpline.
The incident highlights the growing threat of cyber fraud in urban areas. Both victims were from middle-class backgrounds and had saved the money over years. The loss has caused significant financial and emotional distress to their families.
