Mangaluru: A Surathkal resident recently fell victim to an online scam, resulting in a loss of Rs 1.76 lakh. 

According to the complaint lodged at the Surathkal police station, the resident had been browsing the internet for online classes when they received a link via the Telegram app from an individual named Vyas, using the number +447541244922, on October 18. Despite finding positive reviews related to the link, the resident proceeded to transfer a total of Rs 76,000 by October 24, under the impression that the amount would be refunded upon the conclusion of the classes.

Upon attempting to reclaim the money and confronting the fraudster, the victim was informed that their account had been frozen and in order to reactivate it, they needed to pay an additional sum of Rs 55,000. Furthermore, they were coerced into making two more payments of Rs 15,000 and Rs 30,000, as stated by the complainant.