Hyderabad bizman duped of ₹2.69 lakh in online scam

A 33-year-old businessman from Hyderabad was duped of ₹2.7 lakh by fraudsters posing as dealers of ‘return stocks’ or goods which have been returned by customers on leading e-commerce platforms.

The scam began on April 9, 2025, when the victim received a call from a Kolkata-based number. According to the Cyber Crime Wing of the Hyderabad police, the caller introduced himself as a seller dealing in ‘return stocks’ from Flipkart and Amazon, claiming to offer items such as school bags, fans, crockery, and shoes at wholesale rates. Swayed by the seemingly genuine offer, the victim requested product photos and received images of school bags.

The fraudster sent copies of his Aadhaar card, Voter ID, and PAN card. Upon online verification, the Aadhaar and Voter ID appeared authentic, further convincing the victim of the deal’s legitimacy. He then requested a formal quotation and proceeded to place an order for 750 school bags, 25 mist fans, and 60 normal fans.

The fraudster claimed to have dispatched the consignment via a transport company named Maa Vaishno Transport and promised delivery within five days. The victim made an initial payment of ₹18,000, but the delivery was delayed. When he followed up, the fraudster claimed the consignment was stuck in Warangal. When the victim asked for a refund, the fraudster promised delivery by April 28. However, the victim grew suspicious and attempted to verify the transport company. He discovered that the contact number provided was fake, and subsequent enquiries revealed that no such logistics firm existed in Bardhaman, West Bengal.

Meanwhile, 25 days later, the fraudster sent a train ticket, claiming he was travelling to Hyderabad to deliver the goods personally. Despite the assurance, he later switched off his phone, though he remained active on WhatsApp. By the end of the ordeal, the victim had transferred a total of ₹2,69,530.

Citizens are advised to verify business credentials such as GSTIN, trade licences, and company registration before entering any transaction. All suspicious activities or fraudulent calls should be reported immediately via the cyber crime helpline 1930 or online at www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Published - May 29, 2025 06:31 pm IST