Investment scams often start with fake promises — “double your money in 3 months,” “guaranteed profits,” or “AI-driven stock trading.” Scammers create attractive websites, show false testimonials, and flaunt fake SEBI registration numbers. They lure investors through WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media groups, claiming to offer insider tips. Once funds are transferred, the operators vanish or block the investor’s account access.

• Ponzi and pyramid schemes promising unrealistic returns.
• Unregistered trading and advisory apps mimicking SEBI-licensed firms.
• Fake stock market influencers promoting penny stocks for commissions.
• Cryptocurrency frauds through unregulated exchanges and social media.
• Loan investment plans asking for deposits under the guise of NBFC tie-ups.

• ⚠️ Promises of high, risk-free returns within short durations.
• 💡 No traceable company registration, website, or physical address.
• ✅ No customer service number or only WhatsApp-based communication.
• 📉 Pressure to invest immediately to “not miss out.”
• 🎯 Lack of transparency on how profits are generated.

Do’s

• Invest only through SEBI-registered intermediaries and licensed brokers.
• Verify any advisory firm’s registration on the SEBI website before paying fees.
• Read offer documents carefully and understand associated risks.
• Cross-check investment opportunities with financial advisors you trust.

Don’ts

• Do not invest in schemes promising guaranteed returns above market rate.
• Never share OTPs, trading account credentials, or personal information.
• Do not click links shared in trading or investment groups on social media.
• Don’t ignore warnings issued by RBI, SEBI, or I4C regarding illegal investment platforms.

Recent high-profile scams in India included fake crypto coins, fraudulent NBFC deposit schemes, and Telegram-based “guaranteed trading tip” frauds. Victims often realised the scam too late after transferring money to accounts controlled by foreign operators. Each case underscores a key lesson: if an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• Report suspicious financial schemes immediately on cybercrime dot gov dot in or call 1930.
• Notify SEBI through its online complaint portal if the entity claims to be an advisor.
• Contact your bank to freeze or trace fraudulent transactions.
• Alert others through verified awareness channels like “CyberDost.”

• 💡 Conduct due diligence before transferring any funds.
• ✅ Rely on audited statements, not screenshots of “returns.”
• 📉 Avoid following crowd-based “investment trends” on messaging groups.
• 🎯 Stick to long-term, regulated investments with transparent track records.

Regulatory bodies like SEBI, RBI, and I4C are increasing surveillance on fraudulent investment apps and schemes. SEBI’s Investor Protection and Education Fund (IPEF) also conducts awareness campaigns. However, the most powerful protection remains self-education and cautious decision-making. Understanding how to differentiate between regulated and unregulated opportunities ensures financial safety.

Investment scams exploit greed and urgency. Always confirm SEBI registration, avoid “guaranteed” profit schemes, and report suspicious offers immediately. Patience, research, and verified information are the true ingredients of wealth creation. Stay informed through verified analysis and education on Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.