A couple from Ghaziabad has fallen victim to a massive cyber scam, resulting in a financial loss of Rs 3 crore.
Between July and August 2024, the couple made 22 transactions to various bank accounts.
The scam began with a luring Facebook advertisement.
A couple from Indirapuram, Ghaziabad, has fallen victim to a massive cyber scam, resulting in a staggering financial loss of Rs 3 crore. Nabanita Mishra has filed a police complaint, revealing that she and her husband, Mrinal Mishra, were deceived by a fraudulent investment scheme promoted through a Facebook ad.
According to the FIR, between July and August 2024, the Mishras made 22 transactions totaling Rs 3.1 crore to various bank accounts. The scam began with a luring Facebook advertisement, leading them to a WhatsApp group supposedly managed by a renowned investment platform, as reported by TOI. In this group, the administrator encouraged participation in a contest called GTC, promising significant returns.
Initially, the couple paid a monthly fee of Rs 2,000 for investment advice. They were then persuaded to make numerous transactions for shares and IPO investments based on information provided by the scammers. The fraudsters even showed what looked like legitimate SEBI registration details to gain their trust.
Operating through the WhatsApp group, the scammers shared fake transaction details and supposed profits. They even coerced the couple into taking an Rs 80 lakh loan, which they were told was necessary to access their investments. Despite being able to see their investments and profits on the company’s app, the couple was unable to withdraw their money and was asked to pay taxes instead.
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Their suspicions grew when they tried to invest through other platforms and found they couldn’t. Further investigation revealed troubling details about the company. Nabanita also tried to contact other investors in the WhatsApp group, but they were unreachable. The phone numbers traced back to Rajasthan.
The police have registered a case under Section 66(D) of the IT Act and Section 318(4) (cheating) of BNS.
To avoid falling prey to similar scams, follow these safety tips:
- Ignore unsolicited advice: Be cautious of unexpected investment offers.
- Verify the source: Check the credentials of anyone contacting you.
- Check for registration: Ensure the investment firm is properly registered.
- Understand the investment: Know what you’re investing in.
- Don’t share personal details: Protect your sensitive information.
- Beware of high-pressure tactics: Don’t rush into decisions.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
