A shocking case of cyber fraud involving a honey trap and fake investment scheme has surfaced in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut, where a lawyer was allegedly cheated of ₹11.94 lakh. According to the complaint, the accused—identified as Komal Singh and Vikram Singh—first established contact through social media, built trust, and then lured the victim into transferring money into multiple bank accounts on the pretext of high returns. A case has been registered at the cyber crime police station, and an investigation is underway.
Social media contact turns into trap
The victim, a lawyer residing in the Bankers Street area under Sadar Bazaar, stated that on April 10, 2026, he received a message on Facebook from a profile named Komal Singh. What began as casual conversation soon turned into regular interaction.
Within days, the accused claimed to be associated with investment services and promised high returns in a short period. Through consistent communication, Komal Singh gained the victim’s confidence and gradually introduced the idea of investing money.
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Second accused introduced as ‘expert’
After gaining trust, Komal Singh connected the victim via WhatsApp call to another व्यक्ति, Vikram Singh, who presented himself as an investment expert. He explained various schemes and assured significant profits.
Together, both accused convinced the victim that the investment was safe and would yield quick and substantial returns, further strengthening his confidence in the scheme.
Fake profits used to build confidence
As per the complaint, the accused initially showed small “profits” to the victim to make the scheme appear genuine. This tactic helped reinforce trust and encouraged the victim to invest larger amounts.
Gradually, the victim was persuaded to transfer money in multiple installments into different bank accounts provided by the accused. Over time, a total of ₹11,94,730 was transferred.
Contact fades, suspicion rises
When the victim later asked for actual returns or withdrawal of funds, the accused began delaying responses. Soon after, their communication reduced significantly and eventually stopped altogether.
Sensing something was wrong, the victim conducted inquiries and realized he had been defrauded. He then approached the cyber crime police station and filed a formal complaint.
Investigation underway
Based on the complaint, police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. Authorities are currently tracing the bank accounts where the money was transferred.
They are also analyzing mobile numbers, social media profiles, and digital footprints to identify and locate the accused. Officials suspect that similar methods may have been used to target other victims as well.
Rising trend of honey trap investment frauds
Experts note that such scams are increasingly common, combining emotional manipulation with financial deception. Fraudsters often build personal rapport through social media before introducing lucrative investment opportunities.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said, “In such cases, criminals first create emotional trust and then exploit it for financial gain. Honey trap combined with fake investment schemes is a growing pattern in cyber fraud.”
Need for caution and verification
Experts advise users to remain cautious while interacting with unknown individuals on social media. Any investment opportunity promising unusually high returns should be verified through official and credible sources.
People are also advised not to transfer money to unfamiliar bank accounts, especially when dealing with individuals known only through online platforms.
A cautionary reminder
This incident highlights how cybercriminals are evolving beyond traditional methods, using psychological tactics and emotional engagement to trap victims.
With such cases on the rise, awareness, verification, and timely reporting remain the strongest safeguards against financial fraud. Authorities continue efforts to trace the accused and recover the defrauded amount.
