Man from Langer Houz Loses Rs.10.21 lakh in Facebook Friendship Turned Online Scam
The police said the fraudsters were creating fake profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to befriend people and gain their trust. They lure victims by promising high profits through fake online trading or investment platforms
Hyderabad: A 42-year-old person from Langer house became the victim of online trading investment scam and lost Rs.10.21 lakh.
On October 21, 2025, the victim received a Facebook message from a woman identifying herself as Sai Preethi, claiming to be from the UK and a native of Vizag. She established familiarity and gradually gained the victim’s trust, later convincing him to invest in online trading with the assurance of high returns.
Acting on her instructions, the victim initially transferred Rs.50,000. Small profits were later shown in his trading wallet to create trust, prompting him to invest further. Between September 1 and October 10, 2025, the victim transferred a total of Rs.10.21 lakh to various UPI Ids and bank accounts provided by the fraudster.
When he attempted to withdraw $14,000 from the trading account, the transaction failed, and the fraudster demanded additional payments toward taxes. It was then that the victim realized he had been duped by cyber fraudsters on the pretext of stock market trading.
The police said the fraudsters were creating fake profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to befriend people and gain their trust. They lure victims by promising high profits through fake online trading or investment platforms.
Do not trust unknown persons claiming to be from abroad or known acquaintances offering investment tips. Avoid clicking on suspicious trading links or downloading apps shared through social media or WhatsApp.
Never transfer money to unknown UPI IDs or bank accounts for investment purposes. Verify the authenticity of any trading platform and invest only through SEBI-registered entities. Report cyber frauds immediately on the 1930 helpline or www.cybercrime.gov.in. In case of any emergency of cyber frauds please call or WhatsApp 8712665171.
