Personal Information Requests: A Red Flag
Scammers lure unsuspecting users with “unbelievable” discounts, directing them to a website—“digital712.com”—where they are asked to enter personal information after sharing an Instagram Reel with friends. Many people see through this, but the comments reveal that some users are still falling for the trick, sharing phone numbers and details in the hopes of securing the offer. According to a fact check by India Today, these posts originate from sources with potential connections to Rajasthan. Here’s what to know about this scam and how to avoid it.
AI-Generated Voices and Fraudulent Links
The scam Reels utilize AI-generated voices encouraging users to visit “digital712.com.” The link often appears in the Instagram bio of the accounts posting these offers. Once on the website, users are prompted to click a link to get a free smartphone. The site claims to offer models like the iPhone 13, Samsung S23, or Vivo V27, then asks users about their intended purchase, which adds to the illusion of legitimacy.
Free Phone Recharge and Redirected Links
The website also advertises free phone recharges, requiring users to enter phone numbers to proceed. Those attempting to make purchases through digital712.com are redirected to other sites, such as earnwithfaith.in and go.sapost.co.in, which have similar appearances and content. These portals further promote articles on “money-making methods” and government schemes to build credibility but are merely part of a data-harvesting network.
A Classic Data Harvesting Scam
Despite the enticing promises, there is no real way to purchase phones at these low prices. The site refreshes every time users attempt to “buy” a phone, highlighting its sole purpose: to collect personal data under false pretenses. A listed email address in the “About Us” section of digital712.com has been linked to a LinkedIn account suggesting the person may be a teacher from Bikaner, Rajasthan, pointing to the probable origin of the scam.
How to Stay Safe
To avoid falling victim to scams like these:
- Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Avoid sharing personal information on unverified websites.
- Check for secure payment and customer service channels on legitimate e-commerce platforms.
This festive season, stay informed and cautious to enjoy safe online shopping without falling into these traps.
