Haridwar: Cyber criminals in Uttarakhand are increasingly using new tricks to target people. While social media and messaging apps have made communication
easier, they are also becoming tools for fraud. A shocking case in Haridwar shows how a fake wedding e‑card caused heavy financial loss.
According to reports, Amit, a resident of Akashdeep Enclave in Roorkee, received a wedding e‑card link on WhatsApp from an unknown number. Believing it to be an invitation from a relative or acquaintance, he tried to open the link. When it failed to open on his phone, he assumed it was a technical issue.
Rs 90,000 was withdrawn from his bank account within seconds
Later, Amit forwarded the link to his relative in Mangalore, asking him to check whose wedding card it was. As soon as the relative clicked on the link, Rs 90,000 was withdrawn from his bank account within seconds. A message confirming the withdrawal arrived shortly after, revealing that the link was a cyber fraud trap.
Shocked by the incident, Amit immediately reported the matter to the Civil Lines Kotwali police station. Police registered a case against the unidentified cyber fraudster and began investigating digital transactions, call details, and the suspicious link. Officials confirmed that this was a case of cyber fraud and efforts are underway to trace the culprits.
How a single click can lead to huge losses
Police said the incident highlights how a single click can lead to huge losses. In today’s digital age, vigilance is the only safeguard. Whether it is a wedding card, job offer, or government scheme, citizens must think twice before clicking on unknown links.
Police administration has issued an advisory
The Haridwar police administration has issued an advisory urging people to remain alert. Key precautions include: Do not click on links from unknown numbers. Be cautious of e‑cards, offers, and promotional messages on WhatsApp, SMS, or social media. Immediately inform the police and your bank about suspicious activity. Use mobile security settings and anti‑virus protection.
Cyber fraudsters are increasingly using emotional methods
Officials added that cyber fraudsters are increasingly using emotional methods to trap people, such as fake marriage invitations, job offers, and government scheme links. By exploiting trust and curiosity, they trick victims into clicking malicious links that steal sensitive information or drain bank accounts.
Police emphasized that awareness campaigns and vigilance are essential to prevent such crimes. Citizens are advised to verify the source of any digital message before opening it and to report suspicious activity promptly.
