Mumbai: A new type of fraud, where victims are duped by scamsters posing as representatives of television reality shows, has come to light in the city. The Mumbai Police and the Maharashtra Cyber police have initiated investigations.
The matter came to light when Star TV Private Limited approached the cyber police on Monday. Officers said the channel became aware of the racket after a few people turned up at its Lower Parel office to inquire about the ‘prize’ that they had won. The channel’s officials then made inquiries with the people, and told them that no such prizes were being offered, after which the police were informed.
“The victims were duped by scamsters claiming to be representatives of Sabse Smart Kaun , a reality show that airs on Star Plus, in which viewers can also participate. The victims were told that they had won a cash prize of ₹15 lakh, and that they would have to pay some money as processing fees. The victims were then sent images of cards in their names, which also had their pictures and logo of the channel, along with the supposed prize amount, which helped sell the lie,” an officer with the N.M. Joshi Marg police said.
The officer said the cards were followed by bank account details, to which the victims were asked to transfer money. Each of the them transferred between ₹10,000 and ₹20,000, and after waiting for several days, visited the channel’s office for inquiries.
Senior police inspector Pandit Thorat, N.M. Joshi Marg police, said, “We have received an application regarding the matter and are conducting inquiries. No FIR has been registered as yet.”
“Star India is a responsible organisation and observes best governance practices in its everyday operations. We have filed a complaint with the police regarding our Star Plus show Sabse Smart Kaun , where alleged instances of phone spoofing and impersonation have been brought to our notice,” a Star India spokesperson said.
The spokesperson also said the matter is under investigation and they are working with the authorities. “Please note that Star India takes such cases seriously, and has shut down the play-along game as a preventive measure. Viewers and participants have been advised to be wary of such incidents and bring them to our attention forthwith.”
