India, April 25 -- A 59-year-old chartered accountant from Mulund has fallen victim to a sophisticated cyber fraud, losing Rs.97 lakh in a fake stock trading scheme that played out over several months.

According to the police, the victim was initially contacted via WhatsApp by an unknown number. He was added to a group called "Practice Proves Truth, R Gara," where around 85 members shared screenshots and testimonials claiming substantial profits from stock trading. One of the key individuals in the group, identified as Ishani Mehta, began sending personalised investment tips and trading advice directly to the victim.

In October 2024, encouraged by the seemingly credible activity, the victim expressed interest in investing. Mehta instruc...