Port Blair, Apr 26: Sponsored Advertisements featuring deep fake videos and images of prominent individuals are currently being disseminated across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Google. Which are redirecting users to fraudulent WhatsApp/Telegram groups operated by cyber fraudsters, falsely presented as legitimate trading groups, investment advice platforms, or financial advisors. Within these groups, cyber fraudsters disseminate information regarding Stock Market, Stock Tips, Live Classes, and lure citizens to open Institutional Accounts with them to gain maximum profit through confirm Initial Public Offering (IPO) allotments. Cyber criminals share Play store / Appstore links or apk files of fake trading applications with potential victims for trading purposes. Indian mule bank accounts are given to potential victims for depositing money, initial payouts are made to gain trust, and after a significant amount is deposited, fraudsters stop communication and the citizens become victim of cyber financial fraud.
In this regard, Andaman and Nicobar Police issues the following advisory to safeguard yourself against Fake Stock Market Investment:
1. Be extremely cautious of sponsored ads on Facebook, Instagram, or Google promoting investment groups on WhatsApp or Telegram, as these may be fraudulent.
2. Be alert to impersonation by fraudsters as FIIs/FPOs, financial advisors, or reputable institutions.
3. Avoid sharing sensitive financial information like bank details or login credentials with unknown entities.
4. Stay aware of common investment scams and remain sceptical of offers that seem too good to be true like promising unrealistically high returns.
For assistance, information or enquiries, please contact: Cyber Crime Police Station, Port Blair, over Cyber Helpline No. 9531856083 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.
