Homemaker Loses Rs. 1.60 Lakh in  Gold Investment Scam

Online scams continue to evolve, with fraudsters using increasingly deceptive tactics to exploit unsuspecting individuals. In a recent incident, a homemaker from Karkhana, Secunderabad, lost ₹1.60 lakh in a gold investment scam operated through a messaging app.

The victim, Ayesha Shareef, was approached via a Telegram link that advertised a lucrative gold merchant platform. The link promised double returns on investment—an enticing offer that has become a hallmark of many online financial frauds. Hoping to secure quick gains, Ayesha clicked on the link and was impressed when a small amount was initially credited to her account. This move was likely a ploy by the fraudsters to build trust and legitimacy.

Encouraged by the initial transaction, she invested ₹1.60 lakh in a single go. However, days passed with no returns, and all attempts to contact the supposed platform representatives went unanswered. It was then that Ayesha realized she had been scammed.

She promptly filed a complaint at the Karkhana police station. A cybercrime case has since been registered, and an investigation is underway. Authorities are now tracing digital footprints in an attempt to identify the culprits and prevent similar incidents.

Cybercrime officers have issued a public advisory urging citizens to be wary of investment schemes promoted on platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. Messages promising high returns, especially those without verified credentials or official backing, are likely to be fraudulent.

With the rise in digital communication and mobile-based financial platforms, cybercriminals are finding new ways to target victims. Experts emphasize the importance of cyber awareness, advising people not to trust unsolicited investment opportunities and to double-check the authenticity of websites before sharing personal or financial details.

Ayesha’s case is a stark reminder that cyber scams can happen to anyone. Staying informed, using verified platforms, and reporting suspicious activity promptly are essential steps in protecting oneself in the digital age.