The rollout of the e-Zero FIR system in Madhya Pradesh has led to a sharp increase in reported cybercrime cases, with authorities flagging a surge in online fraud complaints across the state. Introduced on December 25, 2025, the system allows victims to lodge preliminary cyber complaints digitally. Since its launch, the State Cyber Crime Headquarters has forwarded over 350 e-Zero FIRs to police stations across Madhya Pradesh for conversion into regular FIRs.
Among the latest cases is a ₹57.5 lakh investment-related cyber fraud registered at Misrod police station in Bhopal, highlighting the growing sophistication of online scams and the vulnerability of even financially experienced individuals.
According to police records, the victim is a 61-year-old retired bank manager who was exploring investment opportunities in the stock market through online searches. During this process, he came across contact details of a company claiming links with a private bank. The entity later turned out to be fraudulent.
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On December 2, 2025, the victim opened an online account with the purported firm. Around eight days later, he received a call from an unknown number stating that no investment had yet been made and urging him to invest immediately to earn high returns. This marked the beginning of a series of persuasive calls from multiple phone numbers, designed to build credibility and pressure the victim into transferring funds.
On December 12, the victim made his first transfer of ₹50,000 via NEFT. The following day, he was sent a link showing that his investment had allegedly generated a profit of ₹6,000. Encouraged by these fabricated gains, the victim proceeded to make further payments.
Police said that between December 17, 2025, and January 6, 2026, the victim transferred a total of ₹57.5 lakh in nearly six transactions to different bank accounts provided by the fraudsters. During this period, the accused also lured him with promises of additional IPO allotments, demanding further payments.
When the victim refused to transfer an additional ₹43.87 lakh, the tone of communication reportedly changed, and he began receiving threats. On checking his investment account, he found that the balance had dropped to zero. Attempts to contact the company failed, with several phone numbers either switched off or found to be invalid. It was at this stage that the victim realised he had been defrauded.
He immediately lodged a complaint via the cyber helpline, following which an e-Zero FIR was registered. The case was subsequently transferred to Misrod police station, where a formal FIR was registered against unknown accused, and an investigation was initiated. Police are analysing the mobile numbers used, bank accounts involved, and transaction trails to identify those behind the fraud.
Officials noted that this is the second investment-related cyber fraud case reported in Bhopal within three days, underscoring the rapid rise of such offences. Investigators said cybercriminals are increasingly using fake trading platforms, manipulated dashboards, and false profit indicators to deceive victims, including retired professionals and individuals with prior financial experience.
Authorities acknowledged that the e-Zero FIR system has simplified the complaint process, enabling victims to report cyber fraud without delay. However, the growing volume of complaints also reflects a significant escalation in cybercrime activity across the state.
Police have urged citizens to exercise caution before responding to unsolicited investment offers. Verifying a company’s registration details, official website, and regulatory approvals is essential before transferring any money. Officials warned that reliance on phone calls, messages, or unknown links poses serious financial risks.
They further stressed the importance of early reporting, technical awareness, and digital vigilance to curb cybercrime. Citizens encountering suspicious online activity have been advised to contact the cyber helpline immediately or approach the nearest police station.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police officials said they are hopeful that analysis of banking transactions and digital footprints will lead to the identification of those responsible.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
