Palghar, Maharashtra: In a significant breakthrough, the Cyber Police Station of the Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) Police Commissionerate has successfully recovered Rs. 7,71,732 lost by six individuals to fraudulent online investment applications. The victims were lured by fake social media advertisements promising high returns.
Between April and October 2024, the six complainants invested varying amounts in bogus investment apps promoted on platforms like Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. These apps claimed to offer substantial returns through investments in mutual funds, stock markets, forex trading, and cryptocurrency. However, after making the payments, the investors received no returns and realized they had been defrauded.
Upon receiving the complaints, the Cyber Police swiftly registered cases and filed them on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP). Prompt action led to the freezing of the suspected bank accounts where the fraudulent funds were transferred.
Here is the breakdown of the recovered amounts for each complainant:
Mr. Gupta – Rs. 1,56,000
Mrs. Khan – Rs. 35,623
Mr. Pathak – Rs. 1,50,000
Mr. Prajapati – Rs. 1,90,000
Mr. Yadav – Rs. 1,56,000
Mrs. Prajapati – Rs. 84,109
After the funds were frozen, the complainants were directed to file petitions in court for recovery. The Cyber Police submitted detailed reports, and the court ordered the refunds. All six complainants have now received their full amounts back into their original bank accounts.
Public Advisory on Online Investment Scams:
The police have issued a strong warning to citizens to avoid falling prey to online investment scams. Key precautions include:
Do not trust promotional ads on social media offering unusually high returns.
Verify the authenticity of any investment or trading app before using it.
Avoid downloading unverified apps or clicking on suspicious links.
Be cautious of Telegram or WhatsApp groups showcasing fake screenshots and testimonials.
Do not be misled by forged SEBI certificates or similar documents.
If You Are a Victim of Cyber Fraud:
Immediately inform your bank.
File a complaint at your nearest police station or via:
Cyber Helpline Numbers: 1930 / 1945
Website: www.cybercrime.gov.in
This successful operation was carried out under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Mr. Avinash Ambure and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime) Mr. Madan Ballal, led by Police Inspector Mr. Sujitkumar Gunjkar, along with the cyber team including PSI Swapnil Vavhal, API Prasad Shenolkar, and other dedicated personnel.
The MBVV has appealed to the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity immediately to help combat cyber fraud effectively.
