The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has issued a warning regarding the rise of fraudulent investment schemes being promoted on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Cybercriminals are reportedly exploiting social media to deceive individuals with enticing promises of high returns on investments.

According to I4C, these scams often feature the names, images, and videos of respected figures, including the Prime Minister, Union ministers, renowned entrepreneurs, financial consultants, and celebrities. In their advertisements, fraudsters make bold claims such as “Guaranteed Returns,” “Double Your Money,” and “Limited Time Investment Offer,” aiming to attract unsuspecting victims.

I4C emphasised that such advertisements may seem credible at first glance but are typically designed to appropriate individuals’ savings. The agency noted a concerning trend where cybercriminals are also utilising Artificial Intelligence to produce deepfake videos, which complicates the task of identifying genuine promotional content.

Mechanism of Investment Scams

When potential victims engage with these materials, they are directed to fraudulent websites or added to WhatsApp or Telegram groups. Initially, they are encouraged to invest modest amounts—such as Rs 500, Rs 1,000, or Rs 5,000—with promises of rapid returns. To further entice victims, scammers fabricate profit reports and generate fake dashboards to build trust.

Once a level of trust is achieved, victims are coerced into making larger investments. When they attempt to withdraw their funds, they are faced with demands for extra payments, citing taxes, processing fees, or Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. Ultimately, these fraudulent operations become inaccessible, leading to blocked accounts and vanished scammers.

Warning Against Misuse of Prominent Figures’ Images

I4C has specifically cautioned that numerous scams misuse the identities of prominent personalities, including the Prime Minister. Marketers misleadingly suggest that certain investment schemes hold government endorsement or the backing of high-profile figures to enhance their credibility.

The agency has reiterated that legitimate institutions, like the Government of India, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), do not promote investment opportunities via social media channels.

I4C has also highlighted the growing threat posed by deepfake technology. Cybercriminals leverage AI to produce videos that create the illusion of high-profile endorsements of fraudulent schemes. These productions can convincingly replicate voice and facial expressions, misleading users into believing the authenticity of investment offers.

Guidelines for Identifying Fake Investments

The I4C has outlined common red flags associated with fraudulent investment ads, including claims of “100% Guaranteed Returns,” promises of rapid profits, and urgent calls to action such as “Limited Offer” or “Last Chance.” They often incorporate images of well-known personalities and may request potential investors to join private groups.

Furthermore, legitimate investment advice will not be conveyed without proper registration with the SEBI, and users are urged to avoid immediate bank transfers or UPI payments based solely on social media promotions.

Individuals are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of any investment opportunity independently. Essential steps include confirming SEBI registration, assessing the authenticity of the website, and ensuring that contact details and addresses are verifiable. If any aspect raises suspicion, the I4C strongly advises against proceeding with the investment.

Actions for Victims and Social Media Responsibility

In the event of falling victim to a scam, I4C recommends individuals to inform their bank immediately and report the incident via the National Cyber Helpline at 1930, as well as filing a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Victims should retain evidence, including screenshots and payment records, as prompt reporting can improve recovery chances.

Experts argue that social media platforms must enhance monitoring and control over advertisements to prevent such scams. They advocate for the prompt removal of fraudulent content and stricter penalties for repeated offenders to safeguard vulnerable users.

I4C has concluded that while digital platforms offer expanded investment prospects, they also present new challenges as cybercriminals adapt their tactics, utilising advanced technologies and deceptive strategies to target individuals online.

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