Astrology App Scam: Mumbai Techie's Rs 12.50 Lakh Ordeal

A Mumbai software engineer was scammed out of Rs 12.50 lakh by cyber fraudsters posing as astrologers. Utilizing the DevineTalk app, the crooks coerced him into making repeated payments for supposed rituals to conquer his life insecurities. He sought help, leading to a police complaint.

In a shocking series of events, a Mumbai-based software engineer fell victim to a sophisticated cyber scam, losing a staggering Rs 12.50 lakh. Fraudsters, masquerading as astrologers on the DevineTalk app, exploited the engineer's personal vulnerabilities to extract money under the guise of conducting spiritual rituals.

The engineer, seeking solace from life's insecurities, downloaded the app and engaged with a supposed spiritual guide, Nishant, in January. He was persuaded to pay Rs 6,300 for a ritual, which quickly escalated into an elaborate plan involving demands for additional payments by a fictitious 'Bade Maharaj'.

As pressure mounted, the tech professional tapped into various financial resources, including credit cards and loans, to meet repeated demands. Determined to verify the authenticity, he later discovered disturbing reviews of the app's fraudulent nature and filed a complaint with the Cyber Police, prompting an investigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)