Elderly GP trapped via messaging app group, promised 8–10% returns; fraudsters displayed fake ₹54 crore profit
In a shocking cybercrime incident from Pune, a 75-year-old doctor has reportedly lost ₹12.31 crore to online fraudsters who lured him with promises of high returns through share trading investments.
According to reports, the fraud took place over a span of 39 days between January 30 and March 20, making it one of the biggest cyber fraud cases reported in the city this year.
Messaging App Group Became Entry Point for Scam
The victim, a general physician whose son is also a well-known doctor, was reportedly added to a group on a messaging application where members discussed profits from online share trading.
Senior Inspector Swapnali Shinde of the Pune Cyber Police said that the doctor was impressed by the profit claims shared in the group and eventually contacted the group administrator to explore investment opportunities.
Fake Trading App and High-Return Promises
The fraudsters then sent the doctor a link to download a mobile trading application. Initially, the doctor invested smaller amounts, but as he was persuaded with promises of 8–10% returns, he began transferring larger sums.
The scammers later pushed him towards so-called “high-value shares” and provided eight different bank accounts for transactions. Over time, he transferred amounts ranging from ₹30 lakh to ₹3 crore in multiple installments.
Fake Profits of ₹54 Crore Shown
To gain his trust, the fraudulent app displayed a fake profit of nearly ₹54 crore, convincing the doctor that his investments were generating massive returns.
However, when he attempted to withdraw or sell his shares, the fraudsters continued demanding more money under various pretexts.
Fraud Exposed After Withdrawal Attempts
The scam came to light when the doctor realised something was wrong after repeated demands for additional payments without any actual withdrawal being processed.
“He then realised that he had been cheated and approached the cyber police,” said Inspector Shinde.
Second-Largest Cyber Fraud Case in Pune This Year
Officials have confirmed that this case is the second-largest cyber fraud reported in Pune so far this year. An investigation has been launched to trace the accused and track the money trail.
Rising Cyber Fraud Cases Targeting Professionals
This incident adds to a growing number of cyber fraud cases targeting professionals, including doctors, through sophisticated digital scams involving fake investment platforms and manipulated data.
