A carefully planned cyber fraud operation targeting online shoppers has been uncovered after sustained investigation by the Meerut Police. The case highlights the growing misuse of social media platforms to run fake e-commerce operations.
Police arrested 4 youths for allegedly operating a fake online store on social media and cheating customers by offering handicrafts and home décor items at unusually low prices. The accused had been running the racket for nearly 2 years through Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp, collecting digital payments and vanishing without delivering any products.
According to officials, at least 12 complaints were registered on the National Cyber Crime Portal by victims who paid advance amounts but never received the promised items. Based on technical surveillance, social media profiling and local intelligence, the police arrested Salman, Salim, Matloob and Zeeshan from Azarada village under Mundali police station limits.
Investigations showed that the accused created multiple fake pages on different social media platforms using fictitious identities. They downloaded attractive photos and videos of chandeliers, handicrafts and decorative items from e-commerce websites and international platforms, edited them, and uploaded the content with their own mobile numbers. Heavy discounts and limited-time offers were used to push buyers into making quick advance payments.
Once a customer showed interest, the accused shared additional images and a so-called product catalogue on WhatsApp to build trust. Payments were collected through Google Pay or PhonePe. After the money was credited, the customer’s number was blocked and a new SIM card was activated. No products were delivered and no refunds were issued.
Police recovered multiple mobile phones, SIM cards and some decorative items. These items were used in photographs to make the fake listings appear genuine. During questioning, the accused admitted that their village is known for decorative goods and chandeliers, and they used this reputation to gain buyer confidence.
Officials said the gang targeted customers across several states. Investigators are examining bank accounts, mobile numbers and the total amount cheated. Digital evidence and UPI transaction details are being sent for forensic analysis.
Police warned that social media-based shopping fraud is rising and advised citizens to avoid advance payments on unverified pages. Suspicious activity should be reported to the cyber helpline 1930 or the National Cyber Crime Portal.
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