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The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched an investor awareness campaign on All India Radio (AIR) to combat securities market fraud, particularly scams executed via social media platforms. The initiative aims to caution investors about fraudulent schemes and protect their financial interests.
The first session, featuring SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey, is scheduled to air on August 15 through AIR’s nationwide network. According to SEBI, a rising number of investors are being targeted through fraudulent stock trading promotions on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and Telegram.
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The regulator stated that the campaign seeks to “caution investors to protect themselves from fraudsters, curb fraudulent activities on social media, and safeguard investor interests.” This strategic use of AIR is designed to reach audiences in both urban and rural India, leveraging the broadcaster’s wide coverage.
SEBI has observed that many retail investors are lured by unrealistic profit promises made via online channels, leading to significant financial losses. The awareness drive aims to equip the public with the tools to identify red flags and avoid fraudulent investment pitches.
Grassroots Financial Literacy Push with Panchayati Raj Ministry
In a parallel initiative, SEBI, in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, has launched a nationwide training programme to promote financial literacy among rural populations. The first session, held on August 9–10 at the Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development Administration in Pune, brought together over 100 sarpanches and block-level leaders from districts across Maharashtra.
The structured sessions covered topics such as financial planning, savings, regulated investment avenues, and safeguarding against fraudulent schemes. The programme also included training on the securities market ecosystem, enabling local leaders to educate and protect their communities from scams.
By integrating media outreach with grassroots training, SEBI aims to build a more informed investor base capable of resisting fraudulent tactics and making sound financial decisions.
