SHILLONG, SEP 16: The Meghalaya Police cyber wing has issued notices to 50 individuals and made two arrests in connection with Ponzi scam investigation.
Superintendent of Police (SP), Pankaj Kumar Rasgania, clarified that the Ponzi scam in Meghalaya is not linked to similar fraudulent activities in Assam, although the investigation is still underway.
Speaking to Meghalaya News 24, SP Rasgania said, “So far, we have arrested two people and served notices to 50 others in connection with the Ponzi scam. Investigations are still ongoing.” When asked about any potential ties to scams in Assam, he added, “Based on our investigation, we have not found any links so far. However, the investigation is still underway.”
Rasgania also warned of the increasing prevalence of online investment and loan app scams, where fraudsters tempt victims with promises of high returns or easy loans. “Fraudulent investment apps ask victims to invest and onboard others, promising up to 10% returns. Loan apps offer easy loans, but even after repayment, they continue to demand money,” Rasgania cautioned.
Another scam on the rise is the “digital arrest” scheme. In this con, victims are sent fake arrest warrants from prominent agencies like the CBI or ED, accusing them of accessing illegal online content. To clear their name, victims are asked to transfer money to a “secure account,” after which the scammers vanish.
Courier scams have also become more frequent, where victims receive calls claiming their names are linked to illegal substances intercepted by customs or police. Scammers then demand bribes to drop the case, leaving victims out of pocket.
Additionally, Rasgania highlighted new scams involving UPI transactions. Scammers send victims numerous fake QR codes and UPI IDs, tricking them into making payments. The rise of “sextortion” scams has also been alarming. Fraudsters lure victims through dating apps or WhatsApp, coax them into intimate video calls, and then blackmail them using the recorded footage.
While investigations continue, SP Rasgania urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity before falling prey to these cyber scams.