A Bengaluru-based Chartered Accountant, seeking a way out of financial troubles, fell prey to an online kidney scam, losing over ₹6.2 lakh. The incident sheds light on the dangers of illegal organ trading and the need for awareness from financial frauds involved.
A Bengaluru-based Chartered Accountant, recently sought desperate measures to overcome his financial difficulties. Reports from Times of India reveal that the Chartered Accountant turned to the internet in search of potential kidney buyers.
The Chartered Accountant reportedly discovered a website, https://kidneysuperspecialist.org, during his quest. He contacted the listed number and initiated communication through WhatsApp. The scammers instructed him to provide personal details such as name, age, address, and blood group.
The scammers, operating under the guise of kidney specialists, promised the CA half of the total payment before the kidney removal, with the total transaction set at ₹2 crore. However, the fraudulent activities soon unfolded as they demanded various fees, starting with an ₹8,000 registration fee and NOC.
As the scam progressed, the Chartered Accountant faced escalating demands, including ₹20,000 for a purchase code, ₹85,000 for operating the code, and a staggering ₹5 lakh for tax clearance. The scammers, claiming to facilitate fund transfers, insisted on these payments.
The Chartered Accountant grew suspicious when asked for an additional ₹7.6 lakh for anti-drug and terrorist clearance forms. Wisely, he consulted with his senior, who confirmed the scam. A subsequent police complaint exposed the illicit activities, leading to the freezing of the fraudsters’ accounts.
With TOI, the CA shared that his financial woes drove him to this extreme measure. He aimed to settle his car’s EMI, clear credit card debts, and resolve other financial issues. Shockingly, he was unaware of the illegality surrounding the sale of organs to strangers.
A case has been registered under the Information Technology Act and IPC Section 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing the delivery of property). Authorities suspect that the fraudsters might have victimized others similarly, prompting an ongoing investigation.
As technology advances, so do the tactics of fraudsters. Vigilance and education are essential in safeguarding individuals from falling victim to such schemes.
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