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Scam alert · · Multiple states

"Work from home: like, rate, review" Telegram task groups that end in deposit demands

Job offers on WhatsApp and Instagram lead to Telegram groups where small paid tasks build trust before "prepaid" tasks demand deposits that are never returned.

A recruiter messages about a part-time job rating hotels, liking videos or reviewing products. The first few tasks pay a few hundred rupees to a real UPI ID. The victim is then moved to a "VIP" group where tasks require a deposit to unlock higher commissions; the dashboard shows earnings, but withdrawal is blocked until further deposits are made.

The pattern has been reported across India for several years and continues to shift between Telegram, WhatsApp and bespoke apps.

Red flags

  • A job that pays you before you have done anything, followed by a request to pay in
  • Group members posting withdrawal screenshots on cue
  • A "customer service" account that only speaks about recharging your balance

If you already responded

  1. Do not pay to "unlock" withdrawals; the balance shown is fictitious
  2. Call 1930 and file on cybercrime.gov.in with the Telegram handles and UPI IDs you paid to
  3. Report the recruiter's number on Sanchar Saathi and leave the group after taking screenshots
Full reporting guide

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