In a shocking incident, a medical officer working at a government hospital fell victim to a scam, losing Rs 24 lakh with the promise of remunerative returns from the stock market.
The doctor, who was engaged in watching stock market-related videos online, came across a group named 'Study Purpose' through one such video, after which he fell victim to a trap that duped him of a large amount of money.
The doctor has been identified as a medical officer, and he stated to the police that he used to watch videos related to the stock market online.
According to a recent media report by the TOI, the doctor said that through one such video, he came to know about a group called Study Purpose. The group was filled with links to online classes and videos related to stock trading. He joined that group through a link.
The doctor was tempted into creating an institutional trading account by downloading a mobile app recommended by the group. The group's administrator instructed the doctor to deposit funds into specific bank accounts opened under various names across different cities nationwide, as the app lacked a direct money transfer option. Moreover, the doctor was forced into downloading another app and subscribing to an Initial Public Offering (IPO), complying with the demands.
Under pressure, the doctor deposited a substantial sum to claim his alleged "winning share." Although his account on the application was later disabled.
On February 8, the victim reported the incident to the police. A case was registered under sections 419, 420, and 120B, involving charges of cheating, cheating by impersonation, and criminal conspiracy, respectively, as per the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Further investigations by the police revealed another victim who had lost over Rs 4 lakh through a similar fraudulent scheme.
Online frauds are increasing day by day. Previously, a similar cyber fraud occurred where a senior doctor lost around Rs 1.1 crore on the pretext of getting huge returns on cryptocurrency investments. Following this, the doctor lodged a complaint at the cybercrime police station, and a probe has been initiated into that case.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Komal Bhoi/MSM)