The Mangystau Regional Police Department is conducting a pre-trial investigation into an online fraud case involving the sale of goods through Instagram. According to investigators, customers were attracted by offers of premium cookware and household appliances imported from China at prices significantly below market value.
How Did the Scheme Operate?
According to the police, the suspect posted advertisements on Instagram offering various products for sale and delivery from China.
Potential buyers were offered premium cookware and household appliances at attractive prices.
To promote the products, the suspect enlisted the owner of a popular Instagram account with more than 360,000 followers.
The advertisements claimed that the products were available, described their quality, and promised delivery to Kazakhstan.
How Were Customers Deceived?
People interested in the offers contacted the seller using the provided contact details and transferred payments to the bank account of an individual entrepreneur.
However, according to investigators, the purchased goods were never delivered, while the money received was used for personal purposes.
During the investigation, police identified individuals who had suffered financial losses while attempting to purchase cookware and household appliances.
What Measures Have Been Taken?
A criminal case has been opened in connection with the incident.
The suspects have been detained and placed in a temporary detention facility.
Police are currently conducting further investigative activities to establish all the circumstances of the case and identify other potential victims.
How Can Consumers Protect Themselves?
Police urge citizens to exercise caution when purchasing products through social media platforms.
Particular attention should be paid to:
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Products advertised at prices significantly below market value.
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The reliability of information about the seller and their business activities.
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Advertisements published by popular social media accounts, which do not automatically guarantee the seller's legitimacy.
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Requests for advance payments to suspicious bank accounts.
Important: before transferring money, consumers should verify the seller, delivery conditions, and the authenticity of product information.
