Online trading scam: Hyderabad govt employee duped of Rs. 15.2L via WhatsApp
Hyderabad: A 46-year-old government employee from Hyderabad lost Rs. 15,20,000 (Rupees Fifteen Lakh Twenty Thousand only) after falling victim to an online investment scam. The fraud began when the victim received a WhatsApp message from the mobile number 9032600787, offering stock market investment and trading opportunities.
The sender claimed to be associated with "ICICI Securities Ltd." and assured the victim that they were registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). To gain his trust, the scammer regularly shared screenshots showing fake profit figures and guided him on how to invest in order to earn high returns.
Believing the claims, the victim transferred money in multiple installments, including ₹2,00,000, ₹5,00,000, ₹8,20,000, and other amounts, bringing the total to ₹15,20,000. The scammer even showed the victim a profit of ₹91,12,228 on what appeared to be the ICICI Securities trading app.
Later, the fraudster demanded an additional ₹4,30,000 to "unlock" the profits and allow withdrawal. When the victim said he could not pay more, he was told that his previous investments would be forfeited and his account blocked. Realizing he had been scammed, the victim stopped further payments and filed an online complaint seeking assistance.
Public Advisory
Cybercrime officials have issued a warning to the public about a surge in online stock trading scams. Fraudsters are contacting individuals via WhatsApp and social media, posing as representatives of reputable financial institutions like ICICI Securities Ltd.
These scams typically involve:
- Sharing fake profit screenshots to build trust
- Claiming SEBI registration without verification
- Using fake trading apps that mimic real platforms
- Asking for increasing deposits under the pretext of unlocking profits
- Creating fake social media profiles and fabricated success stories
Authorities urge people to avoid investing based on unsolicited calls, messages, or social media posts. Applications should only be downloaded from official websites or verified app stores. Never click on links sent through social media, SMS, or unknown sources.
Do not share personal banking information, OTPs, or card details with unknown individuals. Always consult a verified SEBI-registered financial advisor before investing.
Victims of cyber fraud should immediately dial the helpline 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in. In case of emergencies, citizens can also call or WhatsApp at 8712665171.
