Shajapur: A major cyber fraud case has surfaced from the Kalapipal area of the district, where an investor was duped of ₹68 lakh after being lured with promises of unusually high returns in the stock market. Cybercriminals sent a fake trading link, displayed fabricated profits to win the victim’s trust, and later extracted large sums in the name of TDS and taxes. Acting swiftly on the complaint, police managed to freeze ₹25 lakh across the beneficiary bank accounts.
According to the investigation, the victim was contacted through social media and messaging platforms by individuals posing as investment advisers. The fraudsters shared a custom trading link/app, which showed steadily rising returns on the screen after an initial investment. Within days, the displayed profits multiplied, reinforcing the illusion of a successful trading strategy.
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Trap sprung during ‘profit withdrawal’
When the victim attempted to withdraw a portion of the supposed profits, the fraudsters demanded additional payments citing tax, processing charges and service fees. Trusting the claims, the victim transferred money in multiple instalments. Soon after, the accused stopped responding and the fake trading platform became inaccessible.
₹25 lakh frozen, recovery efforts continue
Following the registration of the case, the cyber cell traced the transaction trail and immediately placed a hold on ₹25 lakh parked in the recipient accounts. Police said the frozen amount can be returned to the victim after completion of the judicial process. Efforts are ongoing to recover the remaining sum and identify the accused through technical analysis, including IP logs and suspected mule accounts.
Rising cyber fraud cases in the district
Officials noted a growing trend of similar cyber frauds in the district. Just days before the Kalapipal incident, another case involving over ₹29 lakh lost in the name of trading was reported from Shajapur city. In both cases, the modus operandi was nearly identical—fake platforms, attractive returns, and repeated demands for money under the guise of taxes and fees.
Police advisory to the public
Police have urged citizens to remain cautious of guaranteed or abnormally high return claims. Investors are advised to verify the authenticity of any trading platform before investing and to avoid clicking on unknown links, APK files or private trading apps. Money should not be transferred without confirming regulatory credentials, official app-store listings and verifiable customer support.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
- Promises of guaranteed or unusually high returns
- Private links or side-loaded apps
- New ‘tax’ or ‘fee’ demands during withdrawal
- Absence of official customer care or documentation
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.
