Cybercrime Inspector Duped in ₹39 Lakh Trading Scam
A shocking incident has come to light in Telangana, where a senior cybercrime officer has become a victim of an online trading scam, losing nearly ₹39.37 lakh. This incident raises serious concerns about the vulnerability of even experienced professionals in the digital age.
The 45-year-old inspector, serving in the Rachakonda Commissionerate, was added to a WhatsApp group called "Special Training Program: Deva A Team 13" on November 24, 2025. This group, consisting of around 100 members, often shared screenshots showing significant returns from online trading, creating an illusion of success.
Intrigued by these claims, the officer decided to invest in a trading platform named MAVERICKS Trading App. He started with a small investment, aiming to test the waters. However, seeing what appeared to be consistent returns, he gradually transferred larger amounts, including ₹3 lakh and ₹5 lakh, believing he was making profitable trades.
Unfortunately, his trust in the platform turned out to be misplaced. The app displayed fake profits, leading him to believe he was successfully trading. It was only when he attempted to withdraw his earnings on December 16, 2025, that he discovered the fraud. His withdrawal requests were disabled, and he could no longer contact the group's administrators.
Realizing he had been deceived, the officer promptly filed a complaint at the Cyber Crimes Police Station in Rachakonda. Authorities have since registered a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, including charges of cheating and impersonation.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of caution when engaging in online trading. Even those who investigate digital crimes can fall prey to sophisticated scams. It highlights the need for everyone—experienced or not—to be vigilant and conduct thorough research before investing money online.
As online trading continues to attract many investors, it’s essential to stay informed about potential scams. Following best practices, such as verifying platforms and being wary of too-good-to-be-true returns, can help protect individuals from similar fraudulent schemes.
