In a startling turn of events, a 72‑year‑old woman from South Mumbai has been defrauded of ₹88,000 by a man posing as an astrologer, sparking a police probe into the growing menace of the Mumbai astrologer scam. The victim, a retired BMC clerk, fell prey to a series of online posts promising relationship and family healing, only to find her hard‑earned savings siphoned through a Google Pay link.
Background/Context
Astrology has long been woven into the cultural fabric of India, with millions seeking guidance on love, career, and health. In recent years, however, the rise of social media has opened a new front for fraudsters. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, the number of online fraud cases involving fake astrologers increased by 35% between 2023 and 2025, with Mumbai accounting for a significant share. The city’s dense population and high smartphone penetration make it a fertile ground for such scams.
Experts warn that the allure of quick solutions and the emotional vulnerability of many users make them easy targets. “People often feel desperate for a quick fix to their problems,” says Dr. Meera Patel, a psychologist at the Institute of Social Studies. “When a charismatic figure offers a promise of relief, the line between faith and fraud blurs.”
Key Developments
On November 4, 2025, the victim, identified as Mrs. Shobha Thakur, contacted a number advertised on Instagram and Facebook. The caller introduced himself as Ravi Bhargava from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, and offered a ₹199 consultation. After a brief chat, Mrs. Thakur paid the fee via Google Pay. The scam unfolded over the next few days:
- Initial Consultation (₹199): Paid on November 4.
- Follow‑up Requests: Between November 6 and 8, the caller demanded additional payments for “puja,” “hom‑havan,” and ritual guidance related to her son’s personal life.
- Payments: Mrs. Thakur transferred amounts ranging from ₹7,777 to ₹40,000, totaling ₹87,176.
- Denial of Refund: When she requested proof of the rituals and a refund, the caller avoided her calls and denied returning the money.
Mrs. Thakur reported the incident to the local police on November 10. The Mumbai Police’s Cyber Crime Cell has opened an investigation, and the suspect’s mobile number has been flagged for further scrutiny. The police are also coordinating with the National Investigation Agency to trace the financial trail.
“We are treating this as a serious fraud case,” says Inspector Rajesh Kumar of the Cyber Crime Cell. “Our priority is to recover the funds and bring the perpetrator to justice.”
Impact Analysis
The Mumbai astrologer scam is not an isolated incident. A recent survey by the Consumer Protection Council found that 18% of respondents in Mumbai had fallen victim to online astrology scams in the past year. The financial loss is compounded by the emotional toll, as many victims feel betrayed by someone they believed to be a trusted advisor.
For students and young professionals, the scam serves as a cautionary tale. “We see a lot of students who are already under financial strain being targeted by such schemes,” notes Anil Gupta, a senior lecturer at the University of Mumbai. “They often think a small investment in a ‘special ritual’ could solve their problems, but it ends up draining their savings.”
Moreover, the scam highlights the broader issue of digital literacy. According to a 2025 report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, only 42% of Mumbai residents can verify the authenticity of online services. This gap creates a fertile environment for fraudsters.
Expert Insights/Tips
To safeguard against similar scams, experts recommend the following practical steps:
- Verify Credentials: Check for official certifications or affiliations with recognized astrological bodies.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Prefer bank transfers or official payment gateways that offer dispute resolution.
- Ask for Documentation: Legitimate practitioners provide written reports or certificates.
- Consult Multiple Sources: Seek opinions from trusted friends or family before making any financial commitment.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately notify local authorities and the Cyber Crime Cell if you suspect fraud.
Financial advisors also advise setting a strict budget for any non‑essential services. “If you’re considering a ritual or consultation, set a maximum limit and stick to it,” says Priya Menon, a senior financial planner. “Anything beyond that should raise a red flag.”
Looking Ahead
The Mumbai Police are expanding their outreach by launching a public awareness campaign titled “Know Before You Pay.” The initiative will include workshops in community centers, informational pamphlets, and a dedicated helpline for reporting astrology scams.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs is collaborating with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to monitor suspicious call patterns and block fraudulent numbers. “We are exploring AI‑driven solutions to detect and flag scam calls in real time,” says a spokesperson from the ministry.
On the legal front, lawmakers are drafting amendments to the Information Technology Act to impose stricter penalties on online fraudsters. The proposed changes aim to reduce the prosecution time from months to weeks, ensuring quicker justice for victims.
For the broader public, the incident underscores the need for digital vigilance. As social media platforms continue to grow, so does the sophistication of scams. “Education is the best defense,” emphasizes Dr. Patel. “The more people understand how these scams operate, the less likely they are to fall victim.”
In the meantime, the victim’s case remains under active investigation. The police have requested the suspect’s cooperation and are working to trace the financial transactions. If you or someone you know has been affected by a similar scam, contact the Mumbai Cyber Crime Cell at 112 or visit their official website for guidance.
Reach out to us for personalized consultation based on your specific requirements.
