Surge in cybercrime: Hyderabad Police explain how online investment scams target public
The victim is asked to make a small investment. Fake profits soon appear on the trading dashboard, making it seem like the investment is growing fast.
By - Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: The Cybercrime Unit of Hyderabad City Police has raised its concern over the increasing number of online trading and investment scams targeting citizens across the city.
Fraudsters are exploiting social media platforms, Telegram and WhatsApp groups to lure victims with fake promises of high profits and guaranteed returns on cryptocurrency, forex, or stock investments.
Police officials cautioned that the fraudsters are using sophisticated fake websites and mobile applications to display manipulated dashboards showing artificial profits, a tactic meant to convince victims to keep investing more money.
How the scam begins
The trap usually starts with an unsolicited message on social media from someone posing as a ‘financial advisor’ or ‘investment expert.’ The message often promises high and quick returns from trading activities.
Once the victim responds, the fraudster gradually builds trust and introduces a ‘trading opportunity,’ guiding the victim step by step through WhatsApp or Telegram to make it appear legitimate.
The small start and the big loss
At first, the victim is asked to make a small investment. Fake profits soon appear on the trading dashboard, making it seem like the investment is growing fast. Encouraged by these ‘profits,’ the victim invests larger amounts over time, believing the returns are real and withdrawable.
When the withdrawal trap begins
Trouble starts when the victim tries to withdraw the money. Scammers then demand additional payments, calling them taxes, conversion fees, processing fees, or compliance charges.
Each time the victim pays, a new reason is invented to demand even more. If the victim hesitates or raises doubts, the fraudsters resort to threats, claiming that the trading wallet will be frozen or that legal action will follow.
No real returns, only deception
Despite the large “credited” balance shown on the fake trading platform, victims are never able to withdraw any money. Over weeks or months, the losses grow, and only then do most victims realise they have been duped.
Police said such cases are now being reported in increasing numbers through the 1930 National Cybercrime Helpline and cybercrime.gov.in portal.
Common red flags to watch out for
The Hyderabad Cybercrime Police listed several warning signs that citizens should not ignore:
- Unsolicited investment offers via social media or WhatsApp.
- Unrealistic promises of high or guaranteed returns.
- Requests for repeated payments to release funds.
- Trading dashboards that show big profits but block withdrawals.
- Use of fear or legal threats to coerce more payments.
Dos and don’ts for safe investing
Verify before you invest: Always confirm the authenticity of investment platforms and agents. Check for SEBI registration and reviews from reliable sources.
Be wary of high returns: Legitimate investments carry risks. Guaranteed profits are a sure sign of fraud.
Protect your data: Never share OTPs, banking details, or UPI PINs with unknown persons.
Say no to “Processing Fees”: Genuine trading platforms do not ask for extra fees to withdraw money.
Stay calm if threatened: Scammers may use intimidation tactics. Don’t panic or transfer money under pressure.
Report immediately: If you suspect a scam, report it to the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) or cybercrime.gov.in.
Stay informed and alert
The Cybercrime Police urged citizens to remain cautious and seek investment advice only from registered and credible sources.
