WhatsApp Investment Group Lures Doctor with Fake Profits, Police Launch Probe
In a shocking case of cyber fraud, a 33-year-old neurosurgeon from Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has allegedly lost ₹1.10 crore after falling victim to a well-orchestrated online trading scam.
According to a complaint filed at the Sector 17 cyber crime police station, the doctor was added to a WhatsApp group titled “Po8-5 Paisa Wealth Horizon” in January 2026. The group, which reportedly had around 250 members, was operated by fraudsters posing as professional investment advisors. They convinced the victim to open a trading account on a mobile application named “5-P.”
Small Investment Turns Into Massive Financial Loss
The scam began with a modest investment of ₹10,000 made via UPI on February 5. The app displayed fake profits, building the victim’s trust and encouraging him to invest larger amounts.
Lured by promises of daily returns of up to 5% and attractive IPO trading opportunities, the doctor transferred a total of ₹1.1 crore over the next two months. The payments were made through multiple channels, including UPI, IMPS, RTGS, and NEFT, into different bank accounts controlled by the fraudsters.
Fake Profits and Withdrawal Trap Exposed
By the end of March, the app showed a fabricated balance of ₹4.73 crore, including supposed profits exceeding ₹4.15 crore. However, when the doctor attempted to withdraw funds on March 23, he was asked to pay an additional ₹41.59 lakh as “brokerage charges.”
Despite initial doubts, he complied after other group members—likely part of the scam—claimed successful withdrawals.
Soon after, the fraudsters demanded another ₹10 lakh as a “security deposit,” citing compliance requirements from the Reserve Bank of India over suspected money laundering. This raised serious suspicion, and the victim realized he had been defrauded.
Zero FIR Registered, Investigation Underway
The victim reported the matter to the cybercrime police, who registered a zero FIR on April 3. Authorities confirmed that all communications were conducted via WhatsApp using multiple Indian and international numbers.
Police officials stated that efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the accused. They have also urged the public to exercise caution when dealing with unsolicited investment offers received through unknown links, calls, or messages.
Rising Trend of Online Investment Frauds
This incident highlights a growing pattern of cybercriminals using fake trading platforms, social media groups, and messaging apps to trap victims with promises of high returns.
Authorities advise investors to verify the authenticity of platforms and consult registered financial advisors before making any significant investments.
