India’s crypto fraud crisis widened after two separate cases surfaced within 48 hours. A Bengaluru engineer lost Rs. 43.48 lakh through a fake job and crypto trading scam, while a Rs. 20–25 crore Dehradun case was linked to the alleged Rs. 3,200 crore Botbro network.
India’s crypto fraud problem has returned to focus after two separate cases surfaced within 48 hours. One case involved a Bengaluru software engineer who lost Rs. 43.48 lakh through a fake job offer. Another involved a Rs. 20–25 crore fraud in Dehradun linked by investigators to the alleged Rs. 3,200 crore Botbro network.
Both cases followed a similar pattern. Victims received small early payouts, saw fake profits on digital platforms, and later faced demands for extra “fees,” “taxes,” or “verification charges” before withdrawals.
Bengaluru Engineer Loses Rs. 43.48 Lakh in Fake Job Scam
A Bengaluru software engineer reportedly lost Rs. 43.48 lakh after receiving a WhatsApp message offering part-time work. The work involved simple online tasks, including rating products on Amazon for small payments.
The early payments helped build trust. After that, the victim joined a Telegram group, where fraudsters showed fake crypto profits and shared a counterfeit Coinbase link. The engineer then deposited real money into what appeared to be a trading account.
The scam became clear when the scam victim tried to withdraw funds. The platform blocked access and demanded more money through “processing fees,” “taxes,” and “verification charges.” By the time the victim realized the fraud, the money had already been lost.
Karnataka Records Rising Task-Fraud Cases
The Bengaluru case fits into a wider trend in Karnataka. The state has recorded 395 task-fraud cases in 2026 so far, including 26 cases linked to cryptocurrency.
Task fraud usually starts with a fake earning offer rather than a direct investment pitch. Fraudsters use small payments to reduce suspicion. Then they move victims from simple jobs to larger deposits on fake crypto platforms.
This method makes the fraud harder to detect at the start. The victim first receives money, so the offer may appear real. However, the scheme changes once trust has formed and larger payments begin.
Dehradun Fraud Linked to Botbro Network
In Dehradun, police registered a case after a complaint alleged a Rs. 20–25 crore crypto investment fraud. The complainant, Durga Bahadur Gurung, said accused persons promoted platforms named Botbro, Cross Market, and Mine Crypto.
The accused allegedly asked investors to pay a Rs. 10,000 “licence fee.” They also promised monthly returns of “5–10%” and said investors could withdraw their principal after six months without deductions.
The platform reportedly shut down in October 2025. After that, investors could not access accounts or recover funds. Police are now checking digital payments, bank records, and crypto transfers.
Investigators have linked the case to the alleged Rs. 3,200 crore Botbro network. The wider network is under review across several states. Officers are also checking whether local agents in Dehradun had direct links to the larger syndicate.
Crypto Users Urged to Check Warning Signs
Both cases show how fraudsters use common tactics across small and large scams. They offer “easy income,” show “guaranteed returns,” and display fake profits before blocking withdrawals.
Users should treat cold WhatsApp and Telegram job offers with care. They should also verify exchange links by typing official URLs directly instead of clicking links sent in chat groups.
No real platform guarantees “5–10% monthly returns.” Also, any demand for fresh money before releasing funds is a clear warning sign. Victims should call India’s cybercrime helpline 1930 and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in as early as possible.
Disclaimer : Crypto News India does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
