Delhi Cyber Crime Cell Timely Alert Saves ₹1.59 Crore from Share Trading Scam

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Delhi Cyber Crime Cell’s intervention prevented a ₹1.59 crore loss in a share trading fraud scheme targeting a Pune physician.

Incident Overview

A 50-year-old physician in Pune became a victim of an investment scam after encountering an advertisement promising exceptional returns on stock market investments. The advertisement directed users to a website where they could access free stock analysis by inputting the name of a listed company.

Victim’s Experience

After submitting the required information, the individual was contacted via messaging platforms and enrolled in an investment group. The group, comprising over 90 members, frequently shared screenshots of purportedly substantial profits from online trading activities.

Fraud Process

Administrators of the group falsely claimed to represent a reputable investment research and brokerage firm, persuading the victim to participate in the scheme. Initially, fraudsters requested a small investment, which was followed by immediate profits on the trading platform.

Withdrawal Denial

The victim received three withdrawals totaling ₹11,000 into their bank account, reinforcing the illusion of legitimacy. This success encouraged the individual to progressively transfer larger sums, including multiple installments ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹55 lakh, into bank accounts listed on the application.

Police Intervention

By July 16, the total investment reached approximately ₹95 lakh. The fake platform then displayed a balance of over ₹2.03 crore, creating the appearance of significant gains. However, when the victim attempted to withdraw the full amount, the request was repeatedly denied.

According to the police report, the officer informed the individual that transactions from their bank account on July 4 and July 5 had been linked to beneficiary accounts associated with prior cyber fraud complaints.

Expert Advice

Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh highlighted that organized fraud networks increasingly exploit social media advertisements, fake trading applications, and investment groups to target investors. He noted that fraudsters often fabricate profit displays and permit small withdrawals to establish trust before demanding larger investments.

Investor Recommendations

Singh advised investors to verify all platforms through official regulatory authorities and avoid unsolicited investment opportunities.

Ongoing Investigation

Pune Cyber Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying all participants in the fraud network, tracing illicit proceeds, and examining the role of beneficiary accounts in the transactions.

Authorities’ Message

Authorities have reiterated the importance of reporting suspicious investment schemes promptly and verifying the legitimacy of online platforms before initiating any financial transactions.