Cryptocurrencies have emerged to be a global phenomenon in recent times with people eyeing virtual currencies as the future of transactions. Though a bit fancy for us laymen to understand, banks and the government are aware of its value.
Whenever we talk of cryptocurrencies, the first thought that pops up in our mind is Bitcoin. It stands as the most significant of these currencies and has attracted millions to be invested in them. However, a recent scam which took place in Delhi will make you reconsider your plan of putting your money in Bitcoin.
In a dupe of the highest order, a woman from Mayur Vihar, Delhi lost a whopping 41 lakhs from her Bitcoin wallet. According to Times of India, she was just a part of a monster scam worth Rs. 50 crore.
“On November 8, 2017, my blockchain wallet was hacked, which had 6.5 Bitcoins. The hackers also deleted all the data on my email ID.”
She was cheated of Bitcoins worth 6.5 lakhs initially but had to deal with a blow of an additional 35 Lakhs in trying to retrieve them. She has now approached the economic offences wing.
“After getting the amount, he started complaining that he has been diagnosed with throat cancer and cannot meet anyone. Later, he stopped responding to our calls and other communications.”
She sought the help of an acquaintance who claimed to help in retrieving the lost money by ‘earning’ Bitcoins through binary trading. She believed the men and paid Rs 35 lakh.
She wasn’t the only one to lose her money. Her family and friends had also chipped in with investments that went in vain.
“I invested all my savings in the company along with my friends and family members. The company owners assured me returns of 12% monthly on my investment.”
While the police continue their thorough investigation of the matter, we get a taste of the dark side of digital wallets. Having said that, we leave it to you all to decide whether it is safe or not.