Period: April 5–11, 2025
This week’s incidents highlight a worrying trend of cyber-enabled financial fraud and transnational human exploitation. Authorities are intensifying monitoring and enforcement while educating citizens about emerging cyber threats.
1. Mumbai Businessman Defrauded of ₹61 Lakh in High-Return Investment Scam
In a sophisticated financial fraud, a businessman in Mumbai lost ₹61 lakh after being lured into an online investment scheme that promised exorbitant returns. The victim was contacted by individuals who posed as representatives of a lucrative trading platform. Once he transferred the funds, the perpetrators became untraceable. Prompt action by local law enforcement led to the arrest of three suspects connected to the scheme.
Source: NDTV
2. Retired Maharashtra Official Duped of ₹4.73 Crore via Fake Trading App
A retired 70-year-old government officer in Navi Mumbai was manipulated into investing ₹4.73 crore through a counterfeit trading application named “Indkar.” The app showcased false trading profits to earn trust. When the victim attempted to withdraw his earnings, the app restricted access and communications ceased. A case has been registered, and the cyber police have launched an intensive investigation into the fraud’s digital trail.
Source: freepressjournal.in
3. Lawyer’s Wife in Meerut Loses ₹32.39 Lakh in Bogus Share Trading Scheme
Cybercriminals posing as stock trading experts conned the wife of a Meerut-based lawyer into transferring ₹32.39 lakh. She was invited to join a share trading group on Telegram that falsely promised 300% returns. Despite initial “returns” shown on a fake dashboard, she was later unable to access her funds. Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against the fraudsters.
Source: The420.in
4. 540 Indians Rescued from Forced Cybercrime Operations in Southeast Asia
In a major international crackdown, Indian authorities helped rescue 540 nationals trapped in cybercrime syndicates operating in Myanmar, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos. Victims were misled by fraudulent job offers and then coerced into performing online scams targeting global citizens. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs coordinated with foreign governments to secure their release and repatriation. Multiple suspects involved in trafficking and recruitment have been apprehended.
Source: indianexpress.com
5. Bidhannagar Police Recover ₹2 Crore from Cybercriminals
The Bidhannagar City Police’s cyber recovery cell has successfully reclaimed ₹2 crore defrauded through various scams over the past six months. Victims had fallen prey to phishing schemes, digital arrest threats, and fake KYC updates. Over 30 individuals have been arrested in connection with these schemes, showcasing the effectiveness of proactive cyber policing in Salt Lake.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Key Issues & Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Fake Investment Platforms Scammers offer unrealistic returns through fake trading apps or websites. |
Always verify investment platforms with SEBI or official financial bodies. Avoid schemes promising guaranteed high returns. |
| Fraudulent Apps & Impersonation Fake apps simulate profits; scammers pose as bank or trading officials. |
Download apps only from Google Play or Apple App Store. Never trust APKs or links sent via email or WhatsApp. |
| Job Scams Abroad Victims lured by fake overseas jobs, then trapped in cybercrime rings. |
Cross-check foreign job offers with MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) or Indian embassies. Avoid offers requiring upfront payments. |
| Social Media & Messaging Scams Telegram/WhatsApp used to recruit victims into fake trading groups. |
Don’t join financial groups from unknown sources. Report suspicious groups or channels immediately. |
| Digital Arrest & KYC Fraud Threat calls claiming police or bank authority demand money for fake legal issues. |
Never share OTPs or personal data. Real authorities do not threaten or demand payments via phone. Hang up and report. |
Stay informed. Stay protected.
Cybersecurity Team, Complaint Hub