Bakrid Rush Turns Risky as Fake Payment Frauds Hit Livestock Traders

In particular, they are creating fake mobile apps like "PhonePe" and showing screens that appear to indicate cash has been paid, thereby deceiving the traders. Taking advantage of the chaotic hustle in the markets, these fraudsters are duping traders who don't bother to check if the money has actually been deposited into their bank accounts.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar issued a caution in this regard.

According to him, two such scams came to light recently in the jurisdiction of Kanchanbagh and Rajendranagar police stations. In Kanchanbagh, six individuals arrived on three bikes, bargained with a trader, showed a fake app screen indicating a payment of Rs.68,000, and took away the livestock.

Similarly, in Rajendranagar, four individuals purchased goats worth Rs. 48,000 and duped the seller using the same method with a fake payment app. The victims, upon later checking their bank accounts, realized no money had been credited and lodged complaints with the police.

The goat and sheep sellers must remain extremely vigilant. If someone claims to send money online, do not trust just the screenshot visible on the buyer's phone or a "payment successful" message.

“Check the official bank SMS that comes to your own mobile, or directly open your banking app and confirm the balance has increased before handing over the livestock. Whenever possible, it's best to accept large transactions in cash form,” he said in a post on ‘X’.

“If anyone behaves suspiciously or attempts to deceive you, do not delay even a moment—immediately call Dial 100 or provide information to our police officers,” he added.