A new wave of wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital fraud is sweeping across india — and this time, cybercriminals are using WhatsApp, fake rental listings, and deceptive QR codes to trap unsuspecting users. The government and cybercrime officials have issued an urgent warning: scanning the wrong QR code could get you scammed, framed, or even jailed if your wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital identity is misused.

This emerging scam is particularly dangerous because it targets ordinary people searching for rental houses, PG accommodations, or tenants — making it look like a routine transaction.

How the Scam Works

1. Fraudsters Pose as Owners or Tenants

Scammers post attractive rental ads on social media and property platforms:

· Low rent

· Prime locations

· Fully furnished rooms

· No brokerage

When a victim contacts them, they shift the conversation to WhatsApp.

2. Fake Verification Games

To build trust, scammers send:

· Stolen photos of real houses

· Fake ID cards

· Fabricated ownership documents

This convinces the victim that the property is genuine.

3. The QR Code Trap

Once trust is established, the fraudster says something like:

· “Scan this QR code to pay a refundable token.”

· “This QR code is for verification only — no money will be deducted.”

· “This will confirm your booking/visit slot.”

However, scanning these QR codes initiates a payment request, and the victim ends up sending money instead of receiving it.

4. Worst-Case Scenario: Identity Misuse

If the victim unknowingly shares:

· Aadhaar

· PAN

· bank details

· OTPs

Their wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital identity can be misused for:

· Fraud account creation

· Illegal transactions

· Money laundering

In extreme cases, the victim could become a suspect in a crime, leading to legal trouble or even jail until the case is investigated.

Why This Scam Is So Dangerous

✔ It feels routine — QR codes are commonly used for payments
✔ WhatsApp makes the chats look personal and trustworthy
✔ Scammers use psychological pressure (“Other buyers are waiting”)
✔ Digital payments happen instantly and are hard to reverse
✔ Identity misuse can lead to criminal charges

Signs You're Dealing With a whatsapp Rental Scammer

🔴 Rent is unusually low for the location
🔴 Owner refuses to show the house in person
🔴 Pushes you to “book” the property quickly
🔴 Sends QR codes instead of bank details
🔴 Avoids video calls or live walkthroughs
🔴 Uses stock images or blurry property photos
🔴 Asks for Aadhaar/PAN “for verification”

Government's Safety Guidelines

The cybercrime department advises:

1. Never Scan QR Codes to Receive Money

QR codes are used ONLY to send money, not receive it.

2. Verify Property Physically

Always visit the house or ask for a live video tour.

3. Avoid Sharing Personal Documents on WhatsApp

Only share documents after signing a legitimate rental agreement.

4. Do Not Pay Token Money Before Meeting

If the owner insists, it’s a major red flag.

5. Report Suspicious Numbers

You can file complaints at:

· Cybercrime Helpline: 1930

· Cybercrime Portal: cybercrime.gov.in

What to Do If You Fall Victim

· Immediately block the scammer

· Take screenshots of conversations

· Inform your bank

· File a complaint on 1930 within minutes

· Report the whatsapp number

Quick action increases the chance of recovering funds.

Final Takeaway

The rise of QR-code scams on whatsapp shows how fast cybercriminals are adapting. What seems like a simple request — “Scan this QR code” — can lead to financial loss, data theft, or even legal trouble if your identity is misused.

Stay alert. Verify before you trust. And remember:
You never need to scan a QR code to receive money.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.