Cyber Crime Police Freeze ₹50 Lakh; Victim Lured Through WhatsApp Messages Promising Big Returns
Munish Sood : In a shocking case of cyber fraud, a retired government officer from Rajasthan has reportedly lost ₹94.30 lakh in an elaborate online share market scam that originated in the Sidhbari area of Dharamshala, Kangra district. The incident has raised serious concerns over the growing vulnerability of educated individuals, including former government officials, to digital financial scams.
According to information received, the victim — who is currently residing at his in-laws’ residence in Dharamshala — was targeted by scammers through a WhatsApp message offering investment opportunities in the stock market. Initially, the fraudsters lured him by showing a fictitious profit of ₹2 lakh, creating an illusion of genuine returns.
Emboldened by the initial profit, the retired officer continued to transfer funds over a period of time in 9 to 10 separate transactions, depositing a total of ₹94.30 lakh into various bank accounts provided by the perpetrators. The scammers promised a total return of ₹3 crore, but the officer never received any money in return.
Realizing he had been deceived, the victim lodged a complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station, North Zone, Dharamshala. On receiving the complaint, cyber crime officials initiated an investigation and have already begun the process of freezing bank accounts involved in the fraud.
Cyber Crime Police Respond Swiftly
Speaking on the matter, ASP Praveen Dhiman, Cyber Crime Police Station (North Zone), Dharamshala, confirmed that a formal complaint had been registered. “Based on the complaint filed by the retired officer, we have started an investigation into the scam. Efforts are currently underway to freeze approximately ₹50 lakh of the scammed amount,” he said.
ASP Dhiman also issued a public advisory urging people not to fall for online investment schemes, especially those promoted via unofficial channels like WhatsApp and Telegram. “Cyber criminals are using sophisticated tactics to target even educated and retired professionals. People must exercise extreme caution before transferring money online,” he added.
Rising Trend of Online Financial Frauds
This case highlights a growing trend where not just the uneducated or rural populace, but even retired officials and professionals are falling prey to online fraud due to the lure of high returns and lack of awareness about digital financial traps. The case serves as a stark reminder that financial literacy and cyber vigilance are essential for everyone in today’s digital age.
Authorities continue to investigate the network of fraudsters involved in the case, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
