A case of online investment fraud has been reported from Gwalior, where a social media friendship turned into a financial trap, costing a young man ₹6.17 lakh. An unidentified woman, using the fake identity “Nandani Sharma,” allegedly duped Shatabdi Puram resident Ajay Singh through a fraudulent online trading scheme.
Fake Facebook Friendship Becomes a Costly Trap
The incident falls under the Maharajpura police station area, where the victim stated that he came in contact with a Facebook profile named “Nandani Sharma.” Over time, the accused convinced him to invest in a trading platform called EBC GLOBAL CS, promising attractive returns.
According to the complaint, the scam began with small investments that generated artificial profits, fostering trust. Encouraged by these early gains, the victim continued investing larger amounts as the accused had suggested. Gradually, he transferred a total of ₹6.17 lakh through multiple transactions.
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The transaction breakdown shows that ₹3.32 lakh was transferred via UPI and ₹2.85 lakh via RTGS. After receiving the full amount, the accused allegedly stopped responding and cut off all communication with the victim.
Artificial Profits Used to Win the Victim’s Trust
When the victim attempted to withdraw his money, he found that all contact channels had been blocked. Realizing he had been deceived, Ajay Singh reported the matter to the cyber helpline. The complaint was subsequently forwarded to Maharajpura police for investigation.
Preliminary findings by the police indicate that the trading platform used in the fraud appears to be fake and unregulated. Officials suspect that the entire operation was part of a well-organized cyber fraud network using social media profiles to lure victims into investment traps.
₹3.32 Lakh via UPI, ₹2.85 Lakh via RTGS
Investigators believe that such scams typically follow a structured pattern—initially offering small profits to build confidence, then making repeated requests for larger investments, and eventually disappearing with the funds once a significant amount is collected.
The case has once again highlighted the growing risk of social media-based financial frauds. Experts warn that fraudsters often exploit emotional trust built through online interactions, especially on platforms like Facebook, to convince users to invest in fake schemes.
Police Suspect Organized Cyber Fraud Network
Police have registered a case against an unidentified accused under relevant sections of cheating and the Information Technology Act. The cyber cell is currently examining digital transaction records, UPI IDs, and bank account details to trace the flow of money and identify those involved.
Officials further stated that early investigations suggest a wider network operating across multiple regions, targeting unsuspecting individuals through fake trading applications and online platforms.
The incident has raised concerns among local residents, prompting authorities to issue advisories against engaging in investment offers from unknown individuals on social media. Citizens have been urged to verify the authenticity of any trading platform before making financial commitments.
Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against those involved. Efforts are underway to trace the digital footprint of the accused, and officials remain hopeful of uncovering the broader network behind the scam as the investigation progresses.
