From Scrolling to Scamming: How It Began

In late July 2025, a 28-year-old woman — a senior consultant at a reputed firm — stumbled upon an Instagram profile named “tarot_byyashika.” The account promoted services claiming to banish black magic, planetary doshas, and financial difficulties. On a rough emotional patch following a breakup, she clicked on an advertisement and reached out to the account. She was told a ritual, a “Baglamukhi Devi puja,” could clear negativity for ₹3,500. A QR code was provided, and she made the payment — a decision that would spiral into a months-long financial tragedy.

 The Trap Unfolds: Repeated Demands and Rising Transfers

Over the next several weeks, the alleged tarot reader contacted her repeatedly via WhatsApp. They claimed the ritual was incomplete and demanded more payments for further ceremonies — promising a protective shield and relief. Gradually, payments escalated: amounts ranging from ₹3,500 up to ₹95,000 at a time, via UPI, IMPS, and credit cards. Between July 23 and October 16, 2025, she transferred a total of ₹33,44,492 to multiple bank accounts associated with different Instagram handles and WhatsApp numbers. Despite her compliance and growing desperation, the demands only increased.

Eventually, feeling something was deeply wrong, she confided in her family — who confirmed she’d been duped. She filed a complaint with the National Cybercrime Helpline.

Cyber Police Launch Investigation: The Bigger Picture

This isn’t presented as a lone case. The victim’s complaint names multiple Instagram IDs, WhatsApp numbers, and bank accounts — suggesting a network rather than a lone scammer. Allegations include criminal conspiracy, cheating, and online fraud. Cyber police have begun tracing the financial and digital trail, hoping to dismantle the operation and bring its operators to justice.

What This Story Teaches — Ways to Stay Cautious

• Emotional vulnerability can cloud judgment: scams often prey on people when they feel vulnerable — about love, loss, financial stress, or superstitions.

• Social-media ads and attractive promises don’t guarantee authenticity: a slick Instagram profile or glossy posts are not proof of credibility.

• Once money starts flowing, the pressure to continue keeps increasing: many scams begin with small amounts and grow into massive drains.

• Psychological manipulation matters: fraudsters play on fear, insecurity, and hope — powerful tools to manipulate people into blind trust.

Final Thought

In a world mediated by screens and social media, deception often arrives cloaked as solace — a cure for loneliness, a solution to fears, a promise of relief. The Mumbai woman’s tragic loss reminds us that behind every “healer” profile or “tarot reader” account could lie a trap. Vigilance, scepticism, and a little caution can save not only money — but dignity, trust, and peace of mind.