A Kerala man was targeted by a scammer posing as a representative of a well-known financial services company.
The fraudster, identified as Avanthika Dev, contacted him on WhatsApp.
The victim was convinced to download an app named Br-Block Pro.
Imagine losing a lifetime’s savings to a scam that seemed too good to be true. That’s exactly what happened to a man in Kerala, who fell victim to a sophisticated cyber fraud, losing a whopping Rs 4.05 crore in just two and a half months. Keep reading to know how the scam unfolded.
A 45-year-old man from Thekkumbhagam in Tripunithura was targeted by a scammer posing as a representative of a well-known financial services company. The fraudster, identified as Avanthika Dev, contacted him on WhatsApp, offering an opportunity to make massive profits through share trading.
The victim was convinced to download an app named Br-Block Pro, which the scammer claimed was developed by the company, reports TOI. Assured of high returns and quick gains, the man began investing through the app. Between September 26 and December 9, he deposited multiple payments, hoping for lucrative profits.
Also read: Mangaluru man loses over Rs 16 lakh after being added to a WhatsApp group: Here’s what happened
However, things didn’t go as promised. Despite continuous investments, the victim neither received any returns nor was able to recover his initial deposits. Realising he had been duped, he filed a complaint with the police. The police have registered the case under Sections 316(2) and 318(4) of the BNS Act and Section 66D of the IT Act, 2008, which address criminal breach of trust and cheating.
Also read: Mysore individual loses Rs 4.7 lakh after call about illegal SIM card use: Here’s what happened
How to protect yourself from such scams
With cyber frauds on the rise, it’s essential to stay alert. Here are some tips to avoid falling victim:
- Verify the source: Always double-check the credibility of apps and financial service providers.
- Avoid unknown links: Don’t click on links or download apps shared by unknown contacts.
- Research thoroughly: Before investing, research the company or platform offering the service.
- Don’t share personal details: Never share sensitive information like passwords or OTPs with anyone.
- Consult professionals: Seek advice from trusted financial advisors before making large investments.
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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
