Fake Investment App Fraud
Pause, verify the request through an official channel and never act under pressure.
What is this fraud?
A fraudulent app or website displays fictitious investments and returns while the deposited money goes to accounts controlled by criminals.
How does it happen?
The app is promoted through social-media ads, influencers, fake advisers or invitation groups and may imitate a genuine broker.
Warning signs
App installed outside an official store; assured profit; manipulated dashboard; deposits to changing accounts; withdrawal blocked pending more payment.
How to stay safe
Confirm the entity, website and app through the regulator/exchange. Avoid sideloaded APKs and never pay a 'withdrawal tax' to an unknown account.
If you are a victim
Do not pay further charges. Notify the bank, call 1930, report online and save the APK, URL, wallet/account details, chats and screen recordings.
Evidence to preserve
Keep transaction IDs or UTRs, bank messages, screenshots, chats, emails, phone numbers, profiles, URLs, app details, and the exact date and time. Preserve original files without editing or deleting them.
Official reporting
For financial cyber fraud, call 1930 immediately, notify your bank or payment provider, and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ↗. General technical advisories are available from CERT-In ↗.