A case of fraud linked to tarot readings in Komi and beyond
A resident of Syktyvkar encountered scammers who tampered with the portrayal of Tarot cards and used social channels to lure victims. The information came from the press office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Komi Republic and has since been documented as a criminal matter in the local media landscape.
The incident began when a young woman, attracted by an online advertisement, connected with a company that claimed to offer assistance in various difficult life situations, including card divination and other psychic services. The 24-year-old Russian citizen decided to purchase a Tarot reading for love, advertised at a price of only 850 rubles. What followed was a trail of manipulation and escalating demands that trapped her deeper in debt.
A settlement specialist then demanded 100,000 rubles to permit the supposed removal of the negative effects traced to the girl. The victim, after complying with the initial payment, found herself drained financially. The scammers did not stop there; they invented new schemes to target the victim’s relatives, repeatedly pressing for additional funds under the guise of protecting the family’s well-being.
In total, the Syktyvkar resident transferred 1,435,800 rubles to the fraudsters. They even took on loan obligations to meet these demands, illustrating how quickly online fraud can escalate when trust is abused by criminal networks.
The Investigation Department of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs in Syktyvkar opened a criminal case on grounds of fraud in accordance with Part 4 of Article 159 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. Police officials emphasized that fraudulent schemes surrounding psychic services and fortune-telling should be treated with extreme caution, as perpetrators commonly exploit emotional vulnerability, promising quick resolutions to deeply personal problems.
Investigators noted that a similar case involved a psychic operative from Togliatti who is now facing trial for fabricating damages and demanding compensation through monetary and jewelry-based settlements. The ongoing proceedings highlight a broader pattern where individuals and groups leverage belief and fear to extract money from unsuspecting victims. Attribution: official statements from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Komi Republic and related police reports.
Authorities advise potential victims to verify credentials before engaging with any service purporting to deliver psychic or life-coaching support. Reputable practitioners typically offer transparent pricing, clear terms, and verifiable contact information. If something feels rushed or excessively threatening, it is prudent to pause, review online reviews, and seek independent guidance from trusted sources. In Canada and the United States, consumers are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement and to consult consumer protection resources that outline common signs of fraud in personal-finance and wellness sectors.