The Delhi High Court has recently observed that online financial scams strike at the heart of the country’s economic stability and further noted that there is an urgent need to address them not only to protect individuals but also to ensure the continued vitality of online financial systems. A bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, while rejecting a bail application in a related case, underscored that these scams not only jeopardise individuals but also imperil the continued robustness of online financial systems, which are pivotal for economic growth, innovation, and financial inclusion.
“This court notes that the seriousness of such scams extends far beyond the immediate victims. At their core, they strike at the heart of the nation’s financial stability. By undermining trust in online transactions, these fraudulent activities have a cascading effect that resonates throughout the entire economic landscape,” Justice Sharma stated in the order. She further recognised the urgency of addressing these issues seriously, emphasising the need to safeguard individuals from financial harm and ensure the sustained vitality of online financial systems and, consequently, the broader economy.
According to the prosecution, the accused was part of a large-scale scam, where he lured the general public with online job offers and subsequently coerced them into making financial contributions. The complainant received a WhatsApp message offering part-time online income in exchange for a rating on an online platform. The complainant was induced to make payments, complete specific tasks for commissions and profits, and ultimately fell victim to fraud amounting to over Rs 7 lakh. The court identified this case as a ‘well-organised, inter-state racket” involved in a “financial trap-laying scam conducted through online channels.”
These actions constituted fraudulent activities that undermined public confidence in online financial transactions and cast doubt and insecurity over digital platforms, which are integral to modern financial systems.