CHANDIGARH: A 35-year-old man suffered a loss of ₹26.5 lakh after being lured by a YouTube advertisement that promoted a fraudulent stock market investment scheme. The advertisement, which appeared to be a legitimate opportunity backed by expert analysis, redirected him to a fake trading platform where he was gradually convinced to invest over several weeks. The incident underscores the growing threat of sophisticated online scams exploiting social media and video platforms to reach unsuspecting individuals.
YouTube Ad Led to WhatsApp Investment Trap
Priyank Mishra, a resident of Hallo Majra in Chandigarh, filed a complaint with the city’s cyber cell after being defrauded by individuals operating under the guise of stock market professionals. According to the complaint, Mishra encountered a promotional video while watching YouTube Shorts in April 2025. The ad promised high returns through share market investments and contained a link.
Clicking the link added him to a WhatsApp group where individuals named Nitin Sharma, Tej Kumar Jain, and Nikita Jaiswal introduced themselves as experienced market analysts. The group conducted lectures, interactive quizzes, and regularly shared fake testimonials showing high profits to build credibility and attract more investments from unsuspecting members.
Fake Trading Platform and Threats for Withdrawal
Encouraged by the group, Mishra began investing in a company named Yashvi Securities Private Limited, which was later found to be a fraudulent platform. Over multiple transactions, he deposited ₹26.5 lakh into various bank accounts provided by the scammers. The platform claimed to offer guaranteed returns and showcased fabricated account balances to create a false sense of growth.
Trouble began when Mishra attempted to withdraw his funds. The scammers denied his request and instead issued threats of legal action unless he deposited additional money, citing fictitious withdrawal rules. Realising he had been defrauded, Mishra immediately approached the Chandigarh cyber cell, which has now registered an FIR and begun an investigation into the case.
This incident marks a concerning trend where cybercriminals are exploiting trusted platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp to lure individuals into financial traps. Law enforcement authorities are urging citizens to remain cautious, especially while engaging with unsolicited investment offers on digital platforms.