Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, April 6: A man has allegedly lost Rs 63 lac in an online cryptocurrency investment scam.
In his complaint to the police, the victim explained that he was first approached in January 2025 by an unknown person identifying himself as Reyasen on Facebook. Reyasen, who claimed to be a cryptocurrency trader, introduced Peter Paul as his mentor and encouraged the complainant to invest in a platform named BITFINEW.COM Investment Trading, promising high returns and a 30% commission on profits.
After initial contact, Reyasen and Paul continued their communication with the victim via WhatsApp, where they detailed the supposed lucrative returns of daily investments.
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Believing the claims, the complainant began investing between February 2 and 23. He transferred money through both bank transactions and cash via money exchange services, totalling Rs 63 lac sent to various bank accounts provided by the accused.
However, when the victim attempted to withdraw his investments, the platform offered multiple excuses and delays. Realising he had been deceived, the complainant consulted his friends and subsequently approached the police.
A case was registered at the CEN police station.
Rs 32 lac lost in online part-time job scam
In a separate incident, another man has lost Rs 32 lac in an online part-time job scam.
According to his complaint, the victim received a message on February 26 from a woman named Manvi, who introduced a part-time business opportunity via Telegram. Manvi claimed that by joining the opportunity, the complainant could earn money by completing simple tasks, such as giving hotel ratings.
To begin, an initial payment of Rs 10,000 was required. On March 10, the complainant transferred Rs 10,000 to an account held by one Ashok Dattarwal and received Rs 17,000 in return for completing a task.
Encouraged by the initial return, the victim continued to invest, making a second Rs 10,000 payment the following day and receiving a similar return.
Between March 11 and April 2, the victim made phased payments totalling Rs 32 lac to several bank accounts belonging to individuals named Kishan Kumar, Ratheesh K, Prahlad Ahyavar, Shahjahan Ali, Piyush Santosh Rao, Yash Vaidyanath Kasare, Rameshwar Lal, and Ananthu Krishna.
When no further returns came, and all communication ceased, the complainant realised he had been defrauded.
A case was registered at the Ullal police station.
Both incidents highlight the growing prevalence of online scams, with individuals being misled by fraudulent schemes that promise quick and easy financial gains. Authorities urge the public to exercise caution when dealing with online investment opportunities or part-time job offers that seem too good to be true.
How to stay safe
Vigilance is the key to avoiding such scams. If you receive such calls, never fall for the trap. Remember, police officials never initiate cases online or ask for money.
Most importantly, the term “digital arrest” is fabricated by scammers and does not exist in Indian law. If someone threatens you with it, it is undoubtedly a scam.
Additionally, never share bank details, OTPs, or other sensitive information over phone calls or messages, regardless of the caller’s claims. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further losses.