If someone offered you a fake job, took money for placement, or promised you something that never happened, these acts are all crimes under Indian laws, such as:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (formerly IPC) – cheating, fraud, impersonation
- Information Technology Act, 2000 – cybercrime, identity theft
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019 – if services were promised and not delivered
You can:
- File an FIR reporting in the nearest police station
- Online reporting can also be done at https://cybercrime.gov.in
- Collect all proof: screenshots, receipts, chat records, emails, etc.
- Send a legal notice to ask for a refund.
- If it was indeed a paid service, file a consumer complaint.
FAQs – Online Job Fraud
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1. I paid money to get a job but never got it. What should I do?
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Collect the necessary proof and file a police complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
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2. Is it illegal for companies to accept money for giving a job?
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Yes, the payment for the job offers appears to be illegal and suspiciously operated.
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3. Can I put a case against someone who promised me a job and then disappeared?
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Sure. This will come under cheating, and it is punishable under BNS Section 316 (cheating).
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4. Am I able to demand my money back?
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Yes. Legally, you can send a refund request via legal notice or file an application with the consumer forum.
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5. Where can I register my complaint about the job scam online?
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Go to cybercrime.gov.in or just call 1930, the Cyber Helpline.
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6. Should I take a lawyer to file a complaint?
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Not in all cases. Complaints can be filed directly online or by visiting the police station. A lawyer can help, however, in grave matters.
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7. If I had shared my Aadhaar or PAN details during the fake job dealings, what should I do?
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Make a report at once. You could be at risk of someone misusing your identity.
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8. Can I take a legal case if the job scam occurred via LinkedIn or WhatsApp?
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Yes. The platform does not matter – the defrauder shall be held responsible.
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9. What proof should I gather before lodging a complaint?
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Keep receipts of payment, emails, chats, screenshots, website links, and the job offer letter(s).
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10. What if I transferred money through UPI or Paytm?
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The transaction ID must be preserved; it is some strong evidence to follow the trace and report the fraud.
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11. Can action be taken even if the scam happened months prior?
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It is possible; however, be prompt about it. The delay would diminish the strength of your case.
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12. Are fake government job offers punishable?
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Yes, it is a serious crime involving impersonating government authorities, and it is often punishable by a jail term.
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13. Can I sue the job consultancy that conspired against me?
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Yes. A complaint can be filed against the consultancy in the consumer forum for deception and non-fulfilment of services promised.
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14. Is legal aid available free of charge?
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Yes. Contact your district legal services authority (DLSA) or legal aid services.
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15. Can I claim compensation for mental suffering and loss?
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Yes; in some cases, consumer courts grant compensation for fraud and harassment.
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