Victim was added to Telegram group floated as a stock market platform, lured with promises of returns and duped through fake profit screenshots; money transferred to 11 bank and UPI accounts
Representational image. Pic/iStock
A Nahur-based woman lost Rs 3.86 lakh in a four-day online trading scam, police said. She was added to a Telegram group floated as a stock market investment platform, where members claiming to be trading mentors promised assured returns.
The fraud began with small “trial trades” of Rs 120 and Rs 200, with fake profit screenshots shared to gain her trust. Encouraged by the apparent gains, she transferred larger sums between December 22 and 25, using multiple UPI IDs and bank accounts provided by the accused. When profits stopped reflecting and withdrawal requests went unanswered, she approached the police. Investigators have identified 11 bank accounts and UPI accounts allegedly used to siphon off the money. An FIR has been registered under the IT Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) provisions, and further investigation is underway.
Money trail
First stage (small transactions) Rs 93,700
Second stage Rs 1,93,130
Final stage (large transfer) Rs 1,00,000
Total amount lost: Rs 3,86,830
Accounts used: 11 bank and UPI accounts
Police advisory
. Do not trust trading tips or investment offers on Telegram, WhatsApp, or social media
. Be wary of platforms promising assured or guaranteed profits
. Verify whether a broker or trading platform is SEBI-registered
. Never invest based on screenshots of profits or testimonials
. Avoid transferring money to multiple or personal bank/UPI accounts
. Report cyber fraud immediately to improve chances of recovery
. Helpline: Dial 1930
. Online complaint: cybercrime.gov.in
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