₹7.6 million fraud through WhatsApp call in Punjab, stay alert if you receive such calls

Amritsar (The Uttam Hindu): Cyber criminals in Punjab are increasingly targeting retired senior officials. After the recent incident involving former IG Amarjit Singh Chahal, another shocking case has surfaced in which former IAS officer Harjinder Singh Chahal was allegedly cheated of around ₹7.6 million (₹76 lakh) through a WhatsApp call.

Speaking about the incident, the former IAS officer said that the fraud took place in September last year, but despite repeated efforts, the money has not yet been recovered. He urged the police administration to take strict action against the culprits and help him get his money back.

Harjinder Singh Chahal explained that he received a WhatsApp call from unknown persons who trapped him by continuously asking questions and creating pressure, leaving him no time to think. He said that under the pretext of verification, the fraudsters made him transfer money to three different bank accounts.

He further alleged that when he realized he had been cheated and immediately contacted the bank, no prompt action was taken by the bank manager. According to him, timely intervention could have saved a large portion of the amount.

Appealing to the authorities, he said, “I request officials to help me recover my money and ensure that others do not fall victim to such cyber frauds.”

It is noteworthy that a few days ago, former IG Amarjit Singh Chahal allegedly attempted suicide, and a note later revealed that he too had fallen victim to an online fraud worth nearly ₹80 million. Police are currently investigating both cases.