Fake IT job scams fleece aspirants in Visakhapatnam
Several job aspirants in Visakhapatnam allegedly lost lakhs of rupees to fraudulent firms that promised software jobs and collected money as deposits, registration charges, and training fees. The cases have exposed a rising pattern of employment scams in the city’s growing IT sector.
As Visakhapatnam develops as a technology destination, police have registered several cases against fake recruitment companies in recent years. These firms allegedly targeted unemployed youth with promises of software careers and fixed salaries. Victims said the companies persuaded them to pay large sums in advance, but later denied salaries or refunds.
One of the major cases surfaced in Ramnagar. A firm operating under the name Unnathi Technologies reportedly announced large-scale recruitment for software jobs last year. Nearly 200 candidates applied. The organiser, identified as Saikrishna, allegedly promised a monthly salary of ₹20,000. He also assured applicants that he would return the deposit after one year.
Many candidates trusted the claims and paid between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2 lakh each. Around 140 people joined the company.
Victims said the firm paid salaries only for the first month. Later, it delayed payments, claiming that projects would arrive soon. When nothing changed, the recruits approached the Three Town police. Investigators reportedly found that the accused had earlier carried out a similar fraud in Vijayawada. Police estimate that candidates in Visakhapatnam alone paid nearly ₹2 crore.
In another case from Madhurawada, a company named Varush IT Technologies allegedly collected ₹1 lakh each from about 45 candidates as registration and training charges. Victims said the company did not pay salaries for months. Those who questioned the management were allegedly threatened. Police registered a case at the PM Palem police station.
A separate complaint also surfaced in Dwaraka Nagar last year. Candidates were promised IT jobs linked to document scanning work at Sub-Registrar offices. About 20 people reportedly paid ₹2 lakh each. Investigators later found that the work involved a scanning contract obtained through tender, not a software job.
Industry representatives urged job seekers to remain cautious. O. Naresh Kumar, chief executive officer of Symbiosis Technologies, said genuine IT companies do not collect deposits for software jobs and usually provide training free of cost.