Cyber Scam Alert: Fraudsters Target Investors with Fake Trading Apps and IPO Promises — Here's How to Stay Safe

In yet another alarming case of cybercrime, a man from Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, was duped of ₹25.79 lakh by fraudsters who lured him with false promises of high returns through stock market tips and IPO investments. This case highlights a growing trend in online scams where unsuspecting individuals are targeted under the guise of financial advice and trading support.

According to reports, the scammers used a counterfeit trading app and manipulated the victim through a WhatsApp group offering bogus stock market tips and investment opportunities in IPOs. The victim, drawn by the promise of substantial profits, ended up investing lakhs of rupees — only to realize later that he had been scammed.

The Modus Operandi

As per a report by The Hindu, the victim was invited to invest in an organization named 'Adit Pro', which turned out to be entirely fake. The fraudsters gained his trust by sending regular investment tips and updates via WhatsApp, creating a sense of legitimacy around the group.

They portrayed the opportunity as a limited-time, high-return IPO investment, a tactic commonly used by cybercriminals to pressure victims into quick decisions. The victim, convinced by the consistent communication and impressive-sounding advice, transferred around ₹25.79 lakh to the scammers.

When Suspicion Arose

After waiting for weeks without receiving any of the promised returns, the victim began to suspect foul play. He then reported the matter to the local police. A detailed investigation followed, during which authorities discovered that the entire operation — including the trading platform and the investment group — was a sham.

Upon tracing the financial transactions, the police managed to apprehend one of the accused from Perumanallur. The individual had allegedly provided his bank account to the fraudsters in exchange for a commission. Shockingly, that account was linked to over 35 other cybercrime cases across the country.

What the Police Say

The cybercrime division emphasized the increasing sophistication of online frauds and warned citizens to be extremely cautious when approached with investment schemes that promise unusually high returns. “These scams are often well-organized and difficult to trace unless reported early,” said an officer involved in the case.

Authorities are continuing their search for other members of the scam ring and are urging people to come forward with any relevant information.

How to Stay Safe from Online Trading Scams

In light of this incident, cybersecurity experts have issued several recommendations for the public:

• Always verify the authenticity of any trading platform before investing. Look for regulatory approvals or licenses.

• Avoid investment offers shared through social media or instant messaging platforms, especially if they promise "guaranteed" high returns.

• Consult with certified financial advisors before making any investment decisions.

• Be cautious of unknown individuals or groups who provide unsolicited financial advice.

• Never share your banking details or personal identification documents over WhatsApp or similar platforms.

Where to Report Cyber Fraud

If you or someone you know becomes a victim of a cyber scam, take immediate action. You can call the national cybercrime helpline at 1930, or file a complaint online at .

Cybercriminals are getting smarter, but staying alert and informed can help you protect your hard-earned money. Always double-check before you invest — because in the world of finance, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.