New Delhi,UPDATED: June 26, 2024 12:25 IST
Not everything on the Internet is safe, and it is always recommended to check all information before moving forward. Otherwise, you might end up facing threats like scams, similar to what a 48-year-old Ludhiana resident experienced. The victim was reportedly interested in opening a Domino’s Pizza franchise and was looking to get one online. However, in this process, she lost Rs 20.77 lakh to fraudsters posing as representatives of the restaurant chain.
The incident occurred when the victim, eager to start his own Domino’s franchise, conducted an online search for franchise opportunities. During her search, she found a website that appeared to be an official portal for Domino’s franchises. Intrigued and convinced by the professional appearance of the website, Gogoani decided to pursue her application, according to TOI.
Shortly after submitting his details online, the victim received a phone call from a man claiming to be an official representative of Domino’s. The person he called spoke to the victim in a professional manner and appeared knowledgeable, providing compelling information about the franchise process. He informed Gogoani that an initial payment of Rs 20.77 lakh was required to secure the franchise rights. Trusting in the legitimacy of the process, Gogoani accepted the terms and made the payment through a series of transactions.
However, once the payment was completed, communication from the so-called representative abruptly ceased. Gogoani tried to contact the individual but was unable to and eventually realised that he had been scammed. Realising that he had been duped, the victim promptly lodged a complaint with the cybercrime police station in Ludhiana.
This incident is a stark reminder of the growing trend of online fraud, where unsuspecting people are lured into traps set by cybercriminals under the pretext of money or business opportunities. It is important to note that while the online space offers convenience and opportunities, it also poses significant risks, especially when it comes to financial transactions.
To protect yourself against these types of scams, here are some precautionary measures you should follow:
- Before making any payment, always verify the legitimacy of the business. Contact official customer support numbers and verify information through multiple sources.
- Be wary of requests for large upfront payments. Genuine companies usually have transparent processes and provide several documents before any financial commitment.
- Make sure the website you are dealing with is secure. Search for “https” in the URL and check the official contact information.
- If in doubt, seek advice from financial advisors or legal experts before proceeding with substantial transactions.
