A judicial officer in Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh has become the latest victim of a social media-linked investment fraud, police officials said on Tuesday. The judge reportedly lost about ₹6 lakh after being lured by a fake scheme that promised to “nearly double” his money, leading to a cheating case registered at the Sadar police station.
According to the complaint, the judge saw an advertisement on a social media platform promoting an “attractive investment plan” with high returns in a short time. The advertisement claimed that investing funds would result in rapid gains — including the possibility of doubling the invested amount — prompting him to show interest.
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How the Fraud Allegedly Unfolded
After expressing interest, the judge was contacted by individuals who claimed to represent a reputed investment firm. They initiated a conversation and convinced him to transfer money in several instalments, eventually collecting a total of ₹6 lakh. However, when the judge later attempted to withdraw the funds, the fraudsters refused to return the money or provide the promised returns.
Following the failed attempt to recover his funds, the judge lodged a formal complaint with the local police. Based on his statement, authorities registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and an investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
Hamirpur Superintendent of Police Balbeer Singh noted that cases of investment fraud perpetrated through social media platforms are increasing, and emphasised the need for caution before investing in online schemes without proper research and verification.
Police Action and Public Warning
The FIR was officially filed at the Sadar police station, and officers are now working to trace the fraudsters and gather evidence from digital communications and transaction records. Police are expected to seek assistance from cybercrime units given the online nature of the alleged scam.
“The complaint has been registered and the matter is under investigation,” said an official. “People should not invest in schemes advertised on social media without thorough verification, especially if they promise unrealistic returns.”
This incident adds to a growing pattern of online investment scams in which victims are coaxed into transferring funds under false pretences of high returns. Experts say that fraudsters increasingly leverage social media ads and contact through messaging apps to build trust before asking for money.
Why Investors Should Be Cautious
Authorities repeatedly warn that high-return promises with low risk — especially those circulated through online ads — are classic hallmarks of investment fraud. Genuine financial products regulated by authorities such as SEBI rarely guarantee fixed or doubled returns, and credible firms typically require documented procedures rather than informal online solicitations.
Police and cybercrime experts advise that potential investors should:
- independently verify the credentials of the investment firm,
- check regulatory registration and licence details, and
- seek advice from accredited financial advisors before transferring funds.
Failing to take such precautions can result in significant financial losses — as this case involving a judge shows — and underscores the need for greater public awareness about online fraud tactics.
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.
