Investment frauds in Telangana cause Rs 640 crore loss this year

Telangana victims have lost nearly Rs 640 crore in 17,169 investment fraud cases this year. Cybercriminals use phishing, fake investment apps, and social media promotions to lure victims with promises of high returns, warning citizens to be cautious

Hyderabad: Victims in Telangana have lost nearly Rs 640 crore so far this year to investment scams promising quick money and huge returns.

Investment fraud cases are rising at an alarming pace in the state, with cybercriminals exploiting people’s desire for fast profits through various schemes.

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According to Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) data, 17,169 cases of investment fraud were reported between January and August, resulting in losses of Rs 639.94 crore.

Officials said fraudsters are using advanced techniques like phishing and social engineering to lure people. They circulate promotional messages on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and X, promising unusually high returns through stock market or online investments.

“Once a user clicks the suspicious link, scammers establish trust by giving investment advice and sharing fake success stories. Victims are then added to WhatsApp groups, where they are pressured to invest through unauthorized apps,” said a senior Cybercrime official.

Initially, fraudsters show fake profits to gain confidence but gradually lure individuals into investing larger sums, ranging from a few lakhs to several crores, before disconnecting and absconding with the money.

Cybercrime experts warn that promises of unusually high returns in a short time are a clear red flag.

“People must remember that genuine stock market investments happen only through authorised Demat accounts. Clicking on unknown links or using unverified apps can lead to heavy financial losses,” officials said.

They advised citizens not to trust investment tips received via social media and to be cautious of advertisements offering extraordinary profits. Any claim that money can be multiplied in a very short time is almost certainly a fraud.