Pune Tech Executive Loses Rs 39.7 Lakh in Online Betting Scam

Kothrud, 12th April 2025: A 30-year-old mechanical engineer working at a filtration technology firm fell victim to a massive online fraud, losing nearly ₹39.7 lakh to cybercriminals who lured him into a bogus online betting game. The scam unfolded between November 2023 and January 2024, with the victim unknowingly transferring money through 319 UPI transactions to multiple digital wallets linked to the fraudsters.

Kothrud police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and IT Act following a formal complaint lodged by the executive.

According to police officials, the scam began when the victim received a message via a mobile chat application in November, promoting an investment opportunity in an online gaming platform. The game, described as a virtual aircraft simulation, encouraged users to place bets based on how long the plane stays airborne before it “crashes.” The longer the flight, the higher the supposed returns.

“The game in question has already been banned by the central government due to its links with illegal gambling networks,” said a Kothrud police officer involved in the investigation. “Unfortunately, the victim was unaware that he had signed up on a fraudulent clone of the platform.”

After registering, the man was instructed to begin placing bets by transferring money to various UPI IDs shared by the scammers. “Initially, the amounts ranged from ₹1,000 to ₹30,000. The scammers even credited him with small winnings early on to build his trust,” the officer added.

Over the next few weeks, encouraged by apparent early returns, the victim continued transferring money in the hope of multiplying his investment. However, when he attempted to withdraw his earnings, the platform repeatedly blocked his requests.

“It was only after repeated failed withdrawal attempts that he realized he had been duped,” the officer said. “By then, he had already transferred ₹39.7 lakh.”

Police have initiated a probe into the bank accounts and UPI handles used in the scam. Authorities also issued a warning to the public to avoid investing in unregulated betting platforms, especially those promoted through unsolicited messages.

“The case highlights how scammers are exploiting the popularity of banned betting apps to trick unsuspecting professionals,” the officer noted. “We urge citizens to verify the legitimacy of digital platforms and refrain from gambling or investing in schemes that promise quick returns.”

Further investigation is underway to trace the recipients of the fraudulent transactions and determine whether the gang is linked to other similar cyber frauds across the country.