Faridabad. A cyber fraud case involving more than ₹47 lakh has surfaced in Faridabad, where victims were allegedly cheated through fake trading applications, WhatsApp groups and fraudulent phone calls. Police said businessmen, shopkeepers and women were targeted with promises of high investment returns before money was transferred into multiple bank accounts.
Fake Trading App Used to Show Profits
According to the complaint, a businessman from Lakewood City in Sector-39, Surajkund, was contacted by individuals claiming to represent a company called “5 Paisa.” The fraudsters added him to WhatsApp groups through calls and messages and presented the scheme as an investment opportunity.
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The victim was later asked to download a fake trading application named “Wealth Horizon.” Through the app, the accused allegedly showed fake profits to gain his confidence and persuaded him to transfer money into several bank accounts. When he attempted to withdraw his funds, he was asked to pay additional amounts as taxes and processing fees.
Other Victims Targeted Through WhatsApp Groups
In another case, a grocery shop owner from Sector-55 was added to a WhatsApp group and introduced to a fake investment company called “Invesco Investment.” He was allegedly promised returns of up to 1100 percent and was cheated of ₹18.02 lakh through multiple transactions.
A woman from SGM Nagar was also allegedly defrauded of ₹2.20 lakh after fraudsters sent her a fake income tax warrant. Police said fear tactics and pressure-based messages were used to extract money from her account.
Police Trace Accounts and Digital Transactions
Officials said the fraudsters built trust through fake calls, social media groups and counterfeit trading applications. Victims were shown artificial profits from small initial investments before being persuaded to invest larger sums.
Once more money was deposited, the accused allegedly demanded additional payments under the names of tax clearance, processing fees and verification charges. After extracting money, they cut communication and deactivated accounts and numbers.
Police have intensified the investigation and begun freezing bank accounts linked to the fraud. The cyber cell is tracking digital transactions, bank accounts and the online footprint of the accused. Officials said identification of suspects is underway and arrests are expected as the probe progresses.
