A 33-year-old man has been arrested in Ahmedabad for allegedly running fake Instagram accounts under the guise of being a tantric expert. Vinodbhai Chenaram Jat Joshi, who lives in Chandrabhaga Society, reportedly managed several accounts including @isanastrologer14 and @vinodjoshi_astrologer. He claimed to offer spiritual solutions for personal issues, such as marriage problems and visa applications, through paid rituals.
Joshi used names like Savariya Jyotish and Tamanna Jyotish to promote his services. He uploaded reels on Instagram showcasing these supposed rituals, attracting many vulnerable individuals looking for help. Once he gained their trust, he would request money to perform these fake rituals.
The police reported that Joshi employed “technical analysis” to enhance the credibility of his schemes. As a result, he was booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act for impersonation and cheating through electronic means. Authorities seized two mobile phones and two bank passbooks linked to online transactions from him.
In response to this case, police officials have issued a public advisory urging people to stay alert against online scams. They have shared safety tips to help individuals protect themselves while using social media.
The advisory includes the following points:
1. Be cautious of flashy advertisements on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Snapchat.
2. Avoid downloading files or clicking financial links from unknown sources.
3. Do not answer video calls from strangers.
4. Ignore threats of “digital arrest,” as such laws do not exist.
5. Only access customer care numbers from official websites.
6. Refrain from sharing personal documents or sensitive information on untrusted platforms.
Authorities encourage citizens to report any suspicious online activity or scams to the nearest police station without delay. This case serves as a reminder to be vigilant and cautious when engaging with online content, especially when it involves financial transactions.
Similar incidents have occurred in the past, highlighting the need for increased awareness surrounding online fraud. For instance, a woman from Bengaluru lost Rs 6 lakh to a fraudster posing as an astrologer on Instagram. Such incidents show that scams targeting vulnerable individuals are on the rise, making it crucial for the public to stay informed and cautious.
The police are committed to tackling online fraud and protecting citizens from scams. They are actively investigating these cases and urging people to take necessary precautions while navigating the digital world. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can help prevent themselves from becoming victims of online fraud.