Seekho App Scam: Complaints regarding online fraud and unauthorized auto-deductions linked to the Seekho App have surged. Let us explain how users are falling into traps set by promises of free trials and earning opportunities.
In today's world, a mobile phone is no longer merely a device for making calls; people are now using it to pursue their education, acquire new skills, and even discover ways to earn money. Among such applications, one name that has rapidly gone viral is "Seekho." To date, the app has been downloaded by approximately 150 million—or 15 crore—people. The app's advertisements claim that users can learn how to run a business from the comfort of their homes, grow their social media presence, learn to speak English, and even discover new avenues for earning income. By explaining concepts in simple language through short video clips, the app has become particularly popular among the youth and residents of smaller towns.
However, the very app that people viewed as a tool for learning has now become the subject of numerous complaints. As the saying goes, "every coin has two sides"; similarly, many users report that they were enticed by an offer for a "trial for just ₹1," only to find that money subsequently began being automatically deducted from their bank accounts. In essence, they were defrauded; furthermore, some users claimed they were completely unaware that their subscription had been activated. Many users have lodged complaints on social media platforms and the Google Play Store, alleging that the app enabled an auto-payment feature without providing adequate disclosure, resulting in recurring monthly deductions.
Those who were least familiar with technology faced the greatest difficulties. Additionally, many people residing in villages, small towns, or rural areas—having seen the advertisements—believed that this app might just be the key to transforming their lives. Consequently, some paid to learn how to start an online business, while others subscribed with the aim of learning how to generate income through platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Subsequently, many users felt that the content available on the app did not match what was portrayed in its advertisements. Furthermore, some individuals even alleged that they were charged for information that was readily available for free on YouTube.
Moreover, the method employed for this online scam is executed with considerable cunning. Initially, people are targeted with flashy advertisements across social media platforms and YouTube—ads promising things like, "Earn lakhs from the comfort of your home," "Start a business using just your mobile phone," or "Transform your life in a matter of days." Lured by such promises, individuals download the app in the hope of a better future. They are then presented with a low-cost trial offer, and that is precisely where the automatic deduction scheme begins. Many users remain completely oblivious as to why money is being debited from their bank accounts or UPI wallets on a monthly basis.
Several reports and online discussions have also revealed that users were subjected to constant pressure—through repeated calls and messages—to purchase courses. Additionally, many users claimed that once they shared their contact details, they began receiving a relentless stream of promotional calls. Some individuals also lodged complaints regarding business models such as "Seekho Becho," which dangled the dream of establishing a large-scale business with minimal investment. This marks the beginning of the actual fleecing process, wherein users are asked to pay additional sums under various pretexts. Although these allegations have not been officially substantiated in every single instance, such complaints have rapidly gone viral across social media platforms.
The reality is that not every online app is entirely fraudulent; however, their advertisements often play upon—and ultimately disappoint—people's expectations. This issue extends beyond just the "Seekho" app; today, the internet is rife with platforms that attract users by peddling dreams of "getting rich quick" or "earning substantial income with minimal effort." This is precisely why experts consistently advise users to carefully scrutinize an app's ratings, reviews, and subscription terms before investing any money in it. In particular, overlooking details such as auto-payment settings and free trial conditions at the outset can prove to be a costly mistake in the long run. In today's digital age, learning is essential, but prudence is even more critical. No app can serve as a shortcut for your hard work. If a platform promises to make you rich overnight, you should exercise caution. On the internet, not everything that glitters is gold. Therefore, before downloading any app, be sure to verify its legitimacy; otherwise, in your pursuit of learning, you risk losing your hard-earned money.
