Coimbatore Software Engineer Defrauded of ₹83.3 Lakh in Sophisticated WhatsApp Stock Trading Scam
In a distressing case of digital fraud, a 40-year-old software engineer from Singanallur in Coimbatore has been cheated of a staggering ₹83.3 lakh in an elaborate online stock trading scam conducted through WhatsApp. The victim, identified as Thangabalu Sakthivel, fell prey to a meticulously planned scheme that exploited his trust in seemingly legitimate investment opportunities.
The Deceptive Beginning: A Promising Advertisement
The unfortunate sequence of events began in November 2025 when Sakthivel encountered an online trading advertisement that appeared professional and convincing. Intrigued by the potential for financial gains, he contacted the telephone number provided in the advertisement, unknowingly stepping into a web of deception.
WhatsApp Group Lure: The 'A1 Wealth Research Institute'
On November 17, 2025, Sakthivel was added to a WhatsApp group named 'A1 Wealth Research Institute.' Group members presented themselves as SEBI-registered stockbrokers, creating an aura of authenticity and regulatory compliance. They instructed him to open an account on the website Mbrookf.in and purchase specific stocks as directed, promising substantial returns on his investments.
The Illusion of Profit: Digital Wallet Manipulation
Investigators revealed that the fraudulent trading platform was designed to show artificial profits, with Sakthivel's digital wallet value appearing to increase after each trade. This clever manipulation created a false sense of success and encouraged him to invest larger amounts, believing he was on a path to significant wealth accumulation.
Massive Financial Loss: Three Months of Deception
Between November 17, 2025, and February 12, 2026, Sakthivel transferred a total of ₹83.3 lakh to the scammers, convinced by the seemingly growing value of his investments. The reality, however, was far more grim. When he attempted to claim his profits or recover his principal amount, he discovered the entire operation was a sham, with no legitimate trading occurring and his funds irrecoverably lost.
Police Intervention: Cybercrime Case Registered
Realizing the magnitude of the fraud, Sakthivel filed a formal complaint with the Coimbatore City Cybercrime Police on February 13, 2026. Authorities have registered a case and launched a comprehensive investigation into the sophisticated scam. Police are examining digital footprints, financial transactions, and communication records to identify and apprehend the perpetrators behind this elaborate scheme.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the growing sophistication of online financial scams targeting unsuspecting investors through social media and messaging platforms. Authorities urge citizens to exercise extreme caution when approached with unsolicited investment opportunities, verify the credentials of financial advisors through official channels, and report suspicious activities immediately to prevent similar financial tragedies.
