‘Selling Dreams, Stealing Futures’: Cyber Police Set to Smash Fake Job Rackets in J&K
Organised scam networks exploiting unemployed youth under scanner; raids, arrests and account freezes imminent
Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: Cyber Police in Jammu and Kashmir is preparing for a major crackdown on fake job rackets that have been duping unemployed youth with false promises of employment in government departments, private firms, and overseas placements.
Officials said a surge in complaints over recent months has exposed a well-organised network of fraudsters operating through social media platforms, fake recruitment portals, and bogus consultancies. These rackets lure job seekers with attractive offers and later extract money in the name of registration fees, processing charges, and visa expenses.
“We have identified several such networks. A large-scale crackdown is being planned, and strict action, including arrests and freezing of bank accounts, will follow,” a senior cyber police official said.
Investigators revealed that scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods, including forged appointment letters, fake company profiles, and impersonation of officials to gain the trust of victims. Communication is often shifted to encrypted platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, making it harder for authorities to trace them.
The planned action will involve coordinated raids, digital surveillance, and tracking of suspicious financial transactions. Authorities are also working closely with national agencies to trace interstate links, as many of these networks operate beyond Jammu and Kashmir.
Cyber fraud cases, particularly fake job scams, have witnessed a steady rise in the region, with several victims losing significant sums of money. In some cases, authorities have already filed chargesheets, while investigations are ongoing in others.
Police have urged job seekers to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of job offers before making any payments. “No genuine employer asks for money in exchange for a job. People must exercise caution and report any suspicious activity immediately,” the official added.
Victims of cyber fraud can report incidents on the national cybercrime portal or contact helpline 1930.
Officials said the crackdown aims to dismantle these rackets and send a strong message that those exploiting the aspirations of youth will face strict legal consequences.
