Crypto scam alert: Mumbai doctor loses Rs 1.1 crore; police launch investigation

In a distressing incident, a prominent gynaecologist in central Mumbai fell victim to a cryptocurrency scam, losing a staggering Rs 1.1 crore. The victim, a 46-year-old doctor, shared his harrowing experience with the central cybercrime police station of the crime branch. This incident sheds light on the growing concern of online scams targeting unsuspecting individuals, highlighting the need for increased vigilance in the digital realm.

The deceptive web unraveled: How the scam unfolded

The ordeal commenced in August last year when the doctor received a Facebook message from a person claiming to be Melissa Campbell, an alleged cryptocurrency expert. Intrigued by the prospect of crypto trading, he engaged in conversations with Campbell, who promised substantial profits. Under her guidance, the doctor invested a significant sum, amounting to Rs 1.1 crore, in cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, and USDT. Blinded by the promise of profits, he complied with Campbell's instructions, transferring the cryptocurrencies to various wallet addresses for trading purposes.

However, the situation took a sinister turn when the doctor attempted to redeem his profits. He was informed that he needed to pay substantial taxes and commissions. Desperate, he borrowed Rs 28 lakh from a friend to meet these demands. Despite his compliance, the promised profits never materialised, leading the doctor to realise he had fallen victim to a scam.

A long road to justice: Police investigation underway

After nearly a year of financial and emotional distress, the doctor finally approached the police and filed an FIR against the perpetrators. The case is now under investigation by the central cybercrime police station, led by Joint Commissioner Lakhmi Gautam, Senior Inspector Rajesh Nagwade, and Inspector Santosh Khadke. Authorities revealed that the victim had transferred cryptocurrencies 32 times to the wallet addresses provided by the scammer. The police are diligently working to trace the perpetrators and gather crucial information about the wallets involved in the crime.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online investments and the importance of exercising caution when engaging in financial transactions on the internet. Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly, fostering a safer digital environment for everyone.