SEBI Stock Market Scam Advisory – Beware Social-Media Gurus

PR No. 27/2025; Dated: 21.05.2025

1. Regulatory Snapshot

SEBI Press Release PR No. 27/2025 (21 May 2025) warns of an uptick in stock-market scams perpetrated on social-media platforms—especially WhatsApp and Telegram—and cautions investors against joining unknown groups or following unverified “gurus.”

2. Key Points from SEBI’s Advisory

1. Ignore Unsolicited Links – Any invitation to join a trading/stock-picking group from an unknown number or ID is a red flag.
2. Deal Only with SEBI-Registered Intermediaries – Use authentic trading apps provided by brokers/RIAs whose SEBI registration can be verified.
3. Check Registration Before You Act – Use the “Intermediary Search” tool on SEBI’s website to confirm the entity’s licence status.
4. No ‘Guarantee’ in Markets – SEBI does not authorise anyone to promise assured returns.

3. Red-Flag Indicators of a Likely Scam

• “Guaranteed 10% daily” or “0% risk” claims.
• Requests to transfer money to personal bank accounts or UPI IDs.
• Pressure to act today to avail a limited-period multibagger tip.
• Screenshots of profits without verifiable contract notes.
• Link to install an APK file (Android app) from outside Google Play.

4. How to Report Suspicious Activity

1. SEBI SCORES Portal – lodge an online complaint with evidence (screenshots, numbers, money-transfer details).
2. Cyber-Crime Cell (National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal) – for fraud involving money transfers or data theft.
3. WhatsApp/Telegram In-App Report – flags the account for takedown.

5. Conclusion

SEBI’s latest alert underscores that if a trading tip or group finds you first, it’s probably a trap. Always rely on SEBI-registered professionals, transact only through recognised platforms, and remember—credible investment advice comes with credentials, not guarantees.

Click Here To Read The Full Press Release