Be aware of all red flags in get-rich-quick schemes

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The Central Region Cyber police recently arrested a Nigerian national and an Indian for duping a senior citizen of Rs 12.84 lakh, after convincing him to partner in a London-based company that made Covid-19 vaccines. They had assured the senior of 60 per cent commission, a report said in this paper. The accused were arrested from Kharghar and Panvel.

The businessman was approached by a person through an email in October. The imposter claimed he was from a London-based company, Iconic Pharmaceutical and Manufacturing. The police said he claimed they were into the production of Covid-19 vaccines and looking for a partner who could supply raw material for the same. The person also assured 60 per cent commission on the business.

The target deposited money into several accounts as he agreed to the ‘partnership' before realising he had been conned. mid-day has consistently been warning the public to look sharp as the police had spoken of a spike in crimes during the pandemic.

Criminals or cons tailor their schemes to the times. Since Covid is the buzzword, they will try their best to make capital of a desperate situation. We need to be much more sceptical and question all such claims. Look for the red flags and double check all information, so that one can avoid traps and pitfalls.

Having said that, it is possible that you get scammed. In that scenario, complain quickly to the right channels and follow through with intent and determination. Police have often said that in crimes akin to this, it pays to lodge a complaint quickly, so that tracking down the culprits becomes easier.

People need to display a mix of alacrity, alertness, quick response and focus and determination in order to expose the cons, and see that they get the what they have lost to this fraud, back.