Man running fake Insta astrology profiles held for online fraud in Ahmedabad

The Khadia police team has arrested a 33-year-old man for allegedly creating multiple fake Instagram accounts under the guise of being a tantric expert and defrauding individuals by promising to remove their troubles through paid rituals.

The accused, identified as Vinodbhai Chenaram Jat Joshi, a resident of Chandrabhaga Society in Bapunagar, Ahmedabad, reportedly operated multiple Instagram handles, including:

@isanastrologer14

@vinodjoshi\_astrologer

@joshivinod7

@tamanna\_astrologer

He also claimed to be associated with Vedic astrology names such as Savariya Jyotish, Tamanna Jyotish, and Santoshi Kripa Jyotish to promote his content online. Through these accounts, he uploaded numerous reels related to so-called powerful tantric rituals, including Maha Mohini Vashikaran, the removal of marital obstacles, securing foreign visas, and spiritual healing.

Police say the accused lured vulnerable individuals through these videos, gained their trust by promising spiritual solutions, and then charged them money online under the pretext of performing rituals. The accused is believed to have used "technical analysis" to make his schemes appear credible.

A case has been registered under Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section of the IT Act for impersonation and cheating via electronic means

Items seized include two mobile phones, two bank passbooks used in online transactions.

Be aware, stay safe online

Authorities have issued a public advisory urging citizens to stay cautious about online fraud, especially on social media platforms. The key guidelines include:

1. Do not trust flashy or tempting advertisements on apps like Instagram, Facebook, or Snapchat.

2. Avoid downloading unknown files or clicking on financial links from unverified sources.

3. Do not answer video calls from strangers.

4. Ignore threats of “digital arrest” — no such legal provision exists.

5. Always access official customer care numbers via verified websites.

6. Never share personal photographs, ID proofs, or sensitive information on untrusted websites or apps.

The police urge the public to report any suspicious online activity or scams to their nearest police station without delay.