A large cyber fraud case involving more than ₹47 lakh has come to light in Faridabad, where fraudsters allegedly targeted businessmen, shopkeepers and women through fake trading applications, WhatsApp groups and fraudulent phone calls.
According to police, victims were lured with promises of high investment returns before being convinced to transfer money into multiple bank accounts controlled by the accused.
In one complaint, a businessman from Lakewood City in Sector-39, Surajkund, alleged that he was contacted by people claiming to represent a company called “5 Paisa.” The fraudsters added him to WhatsApp groups through calls and messages and presented the scheme as a profitable investment opportunity.
The victim was later instructed to download a fake trading application named “Wealth Horizon.” Investigators said the app displayed fake profits to build trust and encourage larger investments. When the businessman later tried to withdraw his money, he was allegedly asked to pay additional amounts as taxes and processing charges.
In another case, a grocery shop owner from Sector-55 was reportedly added to a WhatsApp group linked to a fake investment company called “Invesco Investment.” The victim was allegedly promised returns of up to 1100% and lost ₹18.02 lakh through multiple transactions.
Police also reported that a woman from SGM Nagar was cheated of ₹2.20 lakh after receiving a fake income tax warrant. Officials said the accused used pressure tactics and fear-based messages to force her into transferring money.
Investigators believe the fraudsters used fake calls, social media groups and counterfeit trading apps to gain the trust of victims. Small initial investments were reportedly shown with artificial profits before victims were persuaded to deposit larger sums.
After collecting money, the accused allegedly demanded additional payments under the names of tax clearance, verification charges and processing fees. Officials said communication was later cut off and the accounts and phone numbers used in the fraud were deactivated.
Police have started freezing bank accounts connected to the case, while the cyber cell continues to track digital transactions and online activities linked to the accused. Authorities said efforts are underway to identify suspects and arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
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