Sun Jan 18 15:58:27 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Retired Army Colonel and Wife Swindled of ₹1.98 Crore in Elaborate Online Fraud

The Story

A retired 71-year-old Indian Army Colonel and his wife, residents of Richards Town in Bengaluru, have been defrauded of nearly ₹1.98 crore in a meticulously planned online investment and cyber scam. The couple was lured into investing their life savings through a fake trading platform disguised as a legitimate investment scheme promoted by a fraudulent entity impersonating a reputed stock trader. The victims were added to a WhatsApp group containing over 60 members, which added a veneer of credibility to the scheme.

The couple downloaded an application, ‘Stokohni’, and proceeded to transfer funds to multiple accounts provided by the fraudsters between December 16, 2025, and January 5, 2026. After being informed of fabricated “loan” amounts they were required to pay in order to continue trading, the couple became suspicious when attempting to withdraw their funds. The fraud was confirmed after the victims contacted the official online trading support team on January 12, which revealed the scheme to be fraudulent. A formal complaint has been lodged with the Cybercrime Police, leading to an FIR being registered against unknown persons under the IT Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Key Points

  • Victims: A 71-year-old retired Indian Army Colonel and his wife.
  • Location: Richards Town, Bengaluru.
  • Amount Defrauded: Approximately ₹1.98 crore, representing their entire life savings.
  • Modus Operandi: Fake online trading platform (“Stokohni” app), WhatsApp group with over 60 members, impersonation of a reputed stock trader.
  • Timeframe: Transactions occurred between December 16, 2025, and January 5, 2026. Fraud confirmed on January 12, 2026.
  • Legal Action: FIR registered under the IT Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against unknown persons.

Key Takeaways

  • Cyber fraud targeting senior citizens remains a significant threat, with fraudsters employing increasingly sophisticated methods.
  • The use of fake applications and social media groups to build trust and legitimacy is a common tactic.
  • Verification of investment schemes with official sources is crucial before committing funds.
  • Prompt reporting of suspected fraud is essential for investigation and potential recovery of funds.
  • The incident highlights the need for increased public awareness campaigns on cyber safety and financial literacy, particularly among vulnerable populations.

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