When giving smartphones to children, it is crucial to provide clear instructions on the dos and don'ts, along with monitoring their activities closely. A recent incident involving a 15-year-old student falling victim to a part-time job fraud serves as a cautionary tale.

Shashank, a Rajajinagar resident paid the money from his mother's and grandmother's UPI and bank accounts.Shashank used his mother's phone and responded to a part-time job offer received on WhatsApp. The fraudsters enticed him with tasks related to liking and subscribing to YouTube videos, initially paying him Rs 2,750 for these activities.

As the miscreants lured him into more lucrative but prepaid tasks, Shashank ended up transferring Rs 1.4 Lakh from his mother's and grandmother's accounts. The fraudsters claimed his money was invested in cryptocurrency for higher returns, leading him to further financial losses.

When the scammers demanded more money for additional tasks, Shashank realized something was wrong and informed his parents. They promptly filed a complaint with the Basaveshwaranagar police, highlighting the need for vigilance and parental guidance in children's smartphone usage.

A senior police officer said, "We suggested that the parents immediately complain on cyber helpline 1930 and give details of the fraudsters' ac- count. We have registered a case un- der the IT Act and coordinated with the bank to freeze the money in the fraudsters' accounts.” 

“A child becoming a cybercrime is a warning. A kid using a phone can easily fall prey to cybercrimes. A majority of the victims are adults who are educated and are earning well. I advise people to get themselves educated about the different types of cybercrime and pass it on to their spouses and children.” S Girish Deputy Commissioner of Police (West).

To stay safe from cybercrime, Deputy Commissioner S. Girish emphasizes being vigilant. Avoid falling for tempting offers, refrain from sharing OTPs and bank details, don't click on links from strangers, and never transfer money without meeting someone face-to-face. These simple steps can help protect you from online scams and fraud. 

Source: The Times Of India