Mumbai Painting Contractor Loses ₹4.31 Lakh After WhatsApp Hack: Here’s How the Cyber Fraud Unfolded

A 38-year-old painting contractor from Mumbai became the latest target of a growing wave of WhatsApp cyber fraud . The scam, which began with an unexpected image sent by an unknown number, led to the victim losing ₹4.31 lakh from his bank account. The case highlights the rising threat of digital scams and the urgent need to stay alert while using messaging apps.

WhatsApp Cyber Fraud in Mumbai: How the Incident Started

The contractor had visited Parel on 14 November to inspect a flat for a painting assignment. Later in the evening, he received a call from an unknown number instructing him to check his WhatsApp because an image of a woman had been sent to him. Since the caller was unfamiliar, he disconnected immediately.

Soon after, the victim noticed multiple messages - along with the image - on his WhatsApp account, raising his suspicion. He also began receiving repeated calls and several OTP alerts, which he ignored completely.

Scammer Gains Access as OTP Messages Spike

Sensing something was wrong, the contractor reached out to his bank’s customer care team. However, the call got disconnected due to unclear audio, and his repeated attempts to reach the helpline went unanswered.

Within the next 30 minutes, more OTPs arrived. Although he did not share these OTPs with anyone, the victim was shocked to receive messages informing him of three bank transactions totalling ₹4.31 lakh.

This confirmed that the fraudster had successfully hacked his WhatsApp account and manipulated authentication layers to access his financial information.

Police Complaint Registered; Investigation Underway

Realising that he had fallen prey to a cyberattack, the contractor approached the Bhoiwada Police Station. A formal FIR has been registered, and the police have begun investigating the digital trail to trace the fraudster.

Authorities have also urged citizens to remain cautious when receiving images, links, or calls from unknown numbers - especially when linked with WhatsApp or banking activity.

Rising Cases of WhatsApp Cyber Fraud in India

This incident adds to the increasing number of cases where scammers exploit WhatsApp vulnerabilities to deceive victims. With digital communication becoming essential, cybercriminals are using new tricks to bypass user awareness.

Common red flags include:

• Unexpected images or videos from unknown contacts
• Calls urging immediate action
• Sudden OTP messages without initiating any request
• Unverified customer care numbers

How to Stay Safe From WhatsApp Fraud

To avoid falling victim to similar scams, experts suggest taking these precautions:

• Never respond to unknown numbers sending images or suspicious messages
• Do not share OTPs with anyone - banks never ask for them
• Secure WhatsApp with two-step verification
• Verify bank helpline numbers through official websites
• Report suspicious activity immediately to cybercrime portals or local police

The Mumbai case serves as a crucial reminder that even a simple photo sent on WhatsApp can turn into a major financial scam. As digital fraud continues to rise, staying alert, securing your accounts, and avoiding engagement with unknown contacts are the strongest ways to protect yourself.