Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 28: A woman in the city was allegedly cheated of Rs 45.10 lac after being lured with promises of high returns on stock market investments. A case in this regard has been registered at the CEN Police Station.

According to the complaint, the victim received an investment-related link via WhatsApp on August 2. On clicking it, she was added to a group called ‘Indian Market Forum’, where advertisements about stock market investments were posted. She was then directed to register on an app named ‘Server Invi’ by providing her personal details, including her name and address.

Subsequently, she was shifted to another WhatsApp group where members explained that higher profits could be earned by ‘recharging’ money into the account for share trading. She was instructed to contact a person named Riya, the group admin, who provided various bank account numbers to deposit the funds.

Between September 9 and 25, the woman transferred a total of Rs 45,10,000 to these accounts in several instalments. However, when she was asked to pay an additional Rs 33,000 on September 25, she became suspicious and attempted to contact the numbers in the group. It was then that she realised she had been duped.

Police have launched an investigation into the case and are tracing the accused behind the online fraud.

How to stay safe?

Vigilance is the key to avoiding such scams. If you receive such calls, never fall for the trap. Remember, police officials never initiate cases online or ask for money.

Most importantly, the term “digital arrest” is fabricated by scammers and does not exist in Indian law. If someone threatens you with it, it is undoubtedly a scam.

Additionally, never share bank details, OTPs, or other sensitive information over phone calls or messages, regardless of the caller’s claims. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further losses.