Noida | Two separate cyber fraud cases involving alleged losses of ₹29.24 lakh have been registered in Noida after fraudsters allegedly duped victims by offering a fake ice cream franchise and promising high returns through online trading. Based on complaints filed by the victims, the cyber police have launched investigations and are examining bank accounts, mobile numbers, email IDs and other digital evidence to identify those responsible. The allegations remain subject to verification through the ongoing investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.
According to police, Greater Noida resident Sushila Poddar alleged that she was contacted via email by a person claiming to represent a reputed ice cream company. The suspect allegedly offered her a franchise in the Alpha-2 area of Greater Noida and assured her that the business would be operational soon after she made the required investment.
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The complaint states that the accused allegedly collected ₹15.74 lakh in multiple instalments on the pretext of processing fees, machinery purchases, plant installation and other formalities. The victim said she had been promised that the machinery and plant would be installed by April 15, 2025. However, no one arrived on the scheduled date, and the mobile numbers and email addresses used by the suspects subsequently became unreachable.
In another case, Dashrath, a resident of Chipiyana Buzurg, alleged that he was lured into an online trading scheme with promises of substantial profits in a short period. According to the complaint, after initially investing a small amount, he was repeatedly persuaded to invest larger sums. Believing the promises, he allegedly transferred a total of ₹13.50 lakh through multiple transactions.
The complainant alleged that when he later attempted to withdraw his investment, the suspects kept delaying the payment before eventually cutting off all communication. He subsequently filed a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, following which the police registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Police officials said that in both cases they are examining bank accounts, mobile numbers, email IDs, financial transactions and other digital evidence. Investigators are tracing the movement of funds to identify the beneficiary accounts and determine how the allegedly defrauded money was transferred and utilised.
A researcher at Algoritha Security said cybercriminals frequently exploit the names of well-known companies, franchise opportunities and online investment platforms to lure victims with promises of unusually high returns. The researcher advised the public to independently verify any franchise or investment offer through the company’s official website and offices before transferring money. People should avoid sending large sums based solely on emails, phone calls or social media messages and should remain cautious of claims guaranteeing unusually high profits.
Police said the investigation is ongoing, and further legal action will be taken based on digital evidence, banking records and technical analysis. Authorities have also urged citizens to verify investment and franchise offers carefully before making any payments and to report suspected cyber fraud immediately through the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or the nearest cyber police station.
