Gang duping traders with fake online payment apps

BENGALURU: A gang of scammers is operating in Bengaluru, duping shopkeepers and businessmen through digital payment apps. They wear masks and scan QR codes to steal money from unsuspecting victims.

Their targets include hotels, mobile shops and other businesses. They show fake transaction messages to convince victims of payment. In recent incidents, the gang has been caught red-handed in Yelahanka New Town, where they had duped several businesses, including a mobile shop and a biryani centre.

The scam involves Using a fake app that mimics PhonePe, scanning QR codes to make payments and showing fake transaction messages and then escaping from the scene.

Vinayak Mobile Shop
A gang purchased ₹7,000 worth of items from Vinayak Mobile Shop using a fake PhonePe app. The shop owner checked his account, but the money wasn’t credited, revealing the scam.

Shahid Biryani Centre
The gang ate at Shahid Biryani Center in Yelahanka New Town and paid using a fake PhonePe scan. They claimed payment was made and left. The shop owner realised the scam when they returned.

Dinesh Mobile Shop
Another gang purchased ₹15,000 worth of mobile items, including a OnePlus Air Bud, from Dinesh Mobile Shop. They used a fake PhonePe app to show payment and escaped.

The Yelahanka New Town police are investigating the case and urge citizens to be cautious. They have also suggested that if any citizen has been a victim, they can report it to the police immediately.