Noida (Uttar Pradesh): Cyber fraudsters allegedly duped a woman and another resident of nearly ₹44 lakh by promising high returns through investments in cryptocurrency and foreign stock markets. In both cases, the accused reportedly contacted the victims through Telegram and WhatsApp, used fake investment platforms and fabricated profit claims to persuade them to transfer money in multiple instalments. Following complaints, the Noida Cyber Police have registered two FIRs and launched an investigation.
In the first case, a private company employee residing in Lotus-300 Society, Sector 107, told police that she was added to a Telegram group in July 2025 that promoted work-from-home opportunities and cryptocurrency investments. Members of the group allegedly claimed to represent an investment company and promised substantial returns within a short period. To gain her confidence, they reportedly shared fabricated profit screenshots and fake trading reports on a regular basis.
According to the complaint, the fraudsters also warned that failing to make additional investments could result in the loss of her existing funds. Under this psychological pressure, the victim transferred ₹20.92 lakh in multiple transactions to different bank accounts. When she later attempted to withdraw her investment, the accused allegedly demanded additional payments before processing the withdrawal, leading her to realise that she had been defrauded.
The second case involves a resident of Galaxy North Avenue-1 Society in Gaur City West, Greater Noida. The complainant told police that he was contacted through WhatsApp last year and was persuaded to invest in foreign stock markets with promises of exceptionally high returns. Believing the claims, he transferred more than ₹23.06 lakh to multiple bank accounts. After receiving the money, the fraudsters allegedly severed all communication.
Based on both complaints, the Cyber Police have registered cases under the relevant legal provisions and initiated an investigation. Authorities are analysing bank accounts, mobile numbers, digital payment records, IP addresses and other electronic evidence to identify and trace those responsible for the fraud.
According to the Future Crime Research Foundation, investment scams conducted through Telegram and WhatsApp have been increasing steadily. Fraudsters typically add victims to fake investment groups, display fabricated trading dashboards, circulate false profit screenshots and post fake testimonials from supposed investors to build credibility. Once trust is established, victims are encouraged to invest increasingly larger amounts.
Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said cybercriminals are increasingly relying on social engineering techniques and fake digital investment platforms to target unsuspecting investors. He advised people to verify the legitimacy of any cryptocurrency, foreign stock market or high-return investment platform before investing. He also cautioned that if an investment platform demands additional payments before allowing withdrawals, it is a strong indicator of investment fraud.
Police have urged the public not to trust investment offers received through social media platforms, messaging applications or unknown online groups without proper verification. In the event of suspected cyber fraud, victims should immediately report the incident through the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal so that authorities can take prompt action to trace and freeze the stolen funds.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
