Pimpri Chinchwad Cyber Cops Warn Of New Online Scam: Fraudsters Impersonating Billionaires To Promote Fake Investments

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 24th April 2025: A sophisticated new cyber fraud technique has surfaced, where scammers impersonate billionaires and contact unsuspecting individuals directly, luring them into investing in fake companies. The Pimpri Chinchwad Police’s Cyber Crime Cell has issued an official advisory following a recent case in which a local man lost ₹7.16 Crore.

The victim reported the incident, which occurred between 24th March and 23rd April, to the Cyber Police Station. A case has been registered against the holders of international phone numbers +49 1636814985, +33 7578121507, and bank account number 9550880238736200481.

According to police reports, the accused posed as Stephen Itter and Christopher Bergort—alleged CEOs and senior officials of Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG), a multinational services firm based in London. The scammers built trust with the victim over time through repeated communication via WhatsApp, email, and social media. They eventually convinced him to invest €7.38 Lakh, equivalent to ₹7.16 Crore. After receiving the money, they ceased all contact, prompting the victim to approach authorities.

Given the growing threat and evolving tactics of cyber criminals, the Cyber Crime Cell has released a detailed public advisory to raise awareness and prevent further fraud. The Cyber Police Station has alerted citizens, particularly employees and officers of private firms, to be cautious of messages received through fake email, WhatsApp, or Skype accounts impersonating senior officials of international companies. The advisory outlines a pattern:

– Local company officials receive messages from scammers claiming to represent foreign firms, often regarding confidential overseas investments.
– These messages instruct recipients to transfer funds to various international bank accounts.
– Fraudsters send forged documents claiming the recipient is authorized for such transactions.
– Messages stress confidentiality, discouraging victims from discussing with colleagues or superiors.

Precautions Recommended By Cyber Police:

– Verify the names and email IDs of the sender. Cybercriminals often use email addresses that closely resemble official ones.
– Always confirm the domain name of the sender (e.g., [email protected]).
– Check whether the mobile number or email belongs to the actual company official.
– Consult your company’s legal department or trusted senior officials before transferring any funds abroad.
– Remain alert and cautious while handling unsolicited or suspicious financial requests.

In case of any such fraud, individuals are urged to contact the nearest police station immediately or file a complaint at https://cybercrime.gov.in/, or call the national cyber helpline at 1930.