What the scam call looks like
You may receive a call from an unknown number that quickly switches to a WhatsApp chat. The message often reads, "Your CV has been selected for a high-paying part-time job. Earn Rs 20,000-30,000 daily. Click the link to start: wa[.]me/98xxxxxx10". The tone is urgent and promises daily salaries for minimal effort.
The same wording appears in SMS alerts: "Accept this job and earn daily salary. Complete simple tasks (likes, subscriptions) and get instant commission." The link typically opens a WhatsApp "click-to-chat" window or a generic registration site.
How the scam works
After you click the link, the fraudster asks you to register on a fake portal, upload your ID, and pay a "verification" fee, often via UPI or a prepaid card. Once the fee is paid, they claim your account is frozen and request a larger "investment" to release the money. The initial payment is used to lure you into further deposits, and the personal details collected enable identity theft or loan fraud.
The scammers also move the money through card networks, crypto wallets or overseas fintech services to launder the proceeds.
Warning signs
Unsolicited job offers sent by SMS or WhatsApp from an unknown number. Use of urgent language such as "act now" or "limited slots". Requests for upfront payments or transfers to personal UPI IDs. Links that open WhatsApp "wa.me" chats or lead to generic registration pages rather than a corporate career portal. Promises of unusually high earnings for simple tasks like likes or subscriptions.
What to do if you receive the call
Do not click any link or make any payment. Verify the employer on official company websites or job portals. If the message asks for personal or bank details, treat it as suspicious and block the number.
Report the incident immediately: lodge a complaint on the Cyber Crime portal (cybercrime.gov.in) with screenshots and phone numbers, call the national helpline 1930, and report the number on Chakshu at sancharsaathi.gov.in so it can be blocked. Also inform your bank using the number on your card or the bank’s official app.
If you already paid or shared details
Contact your bank right away to stop or reverse the transaction and request a new UPI PIN if needed. Change passwords on any accounts whose credentials may have been exposed and enable two-factor authentication.
File a police complaint through the cyber-crime portal and keep the complaint reference for follow-up. Monitor your bank statements and credit reports for unauthorized activity. You can also seek guidance from I4C-Cyber Dost on social media for the latest recovery tips.
Questions
How do I stop part-time job scam calls?
Do not engage with the caller, block the number, and report the call to the 1930 helpline and cybercrime.gov.in as soon as possible.
Where do I report a part-time job scam call?
File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in and report the caller's number on Chakshu at sancharsaathi.gov.in. If you paid anything, call 1930 and your bank immediately.
Can I get my money back after a part-time job scam?
Contact your bank to request a transaction reversal and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930. Refunds are not guaranteed but prompt reporting improves chances.