The city of Bhopal has experienced a significant increase in cyber fraud complaints following the implementation of the e-Zero FIR system, designed to streamline the registration of online grievances. Since its introduction on December 25, 2025, the State Cyber Crime Headquarters has processed and forwarded more than 350 e-Zero FIRs to various police stations across Madhya Pradesh for conversion into regular First Information Reports.
Recent Incident Highlights Growing Threat
In one of the latest cases, the Misrod police registered a cyber fraud complaint on Friday involving a 61-year-old retired bank manager who reportedly lost Rs 57.5 lakh to a fraudulent investment scheme. This incident marks the second investment-related cyber fraud case reported in Bhopal within just three days, underscoring the escalating nature of online financial crimes in the region.
How the Elaborate Scam Unfolded
According to police reports, the victim, a resident of Shivangan Colony in Salaiya, Misrod, was searching online for a company associated with a private bank to invest in the share market. During his search, he encountered contact details for what appeared to be a legitimate investment firm but was actually a fraudulent operation.
On December 2, 2025, the retired banker opened an online account with this company. Eight days later, he received a call from an unknown number claiming that no investment had been made yet and urging him to invest to earn substantial returns. Over the following days, he received multiple calls from different numbers, each applying pressure to invest.
The Financial Drain and False Promises
On December 12, the victim transferred Rs 50,000 via NEFT to the company. The next day, the fraudulent company sent him a list of shares and a link showing his investment had apparently grown by Rs 6,000. Encouraged by these seemingly positive returns, he proceeded to make additional transfers.
Between December 17, 2025 and January 6, 2026, the victim sent money in approximately six transactions totaling Rs 57.5 lakh to various bank accounts provided by the company. The fraudsters further enticed him with promises of extra IPO shares, demanding additional payments later in the scheme.
The Discovery and Aftermath
When the victim refused to pay an additional Rs 43.87 lakh demanded by the scammers, he received threats. Upon checking his investment account, he discovered his balance had been reduced to zero. Attempts to contact the company proved futile as several phone numbers were either switched off or invalid.
Realizing he had been deceived, the retired bank manager lodged a complaint through the cyber helpline. An e-Zero FIR was registered, and the case was transferred to Misrod police for further action. Authorities have filed a case against unidentified fraudsters and launched an investigation based on the mobile numbers used in the scam.
Broader Implications and Police Advisory
The rise in cyber fraud cases in Bhopal highlights the growing need for vigilance when engaging in online investments, even for experienced professionals like retired bankers. Police officials have urged citizens to thoroughly verify companies and investment opportunities before transferring any funds and to report suspicious activity immediately to prevent financial losses.
This incident serves as a stark reminder that sophisticated cyber criminals are increasingly targeting individuals through elaborate investment schemes, exploiting the convenience of digital platforms while undermining financial security.
