Rhea Chakraborty has recently been in the spotlight for both her professional and personal life. Following her return to the entertainment industry with a podcast, the Delhi Police summoned her regarding an app-based scam involving approximately Rs 500 crore.
Read More: October festivals in India: Celebrate Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali & their meaning
Celebrities with large social media followings endorsed the app, which ultimately defrauded users who invested in it. According to Hindustan Times, Rhea was questioned alongside other celebrities, including comedian Bharti Singh and YouTuber Elvish Yadav, regarding their association with the HiBox mobile app. This action followed numerous complaints from individuals who alleged they were scammed after investing in the app. Users reportedly made these investments after viewing promotional content from their favorite influencers and YouTubers.
Read More: Indian Railways set to launch Hydrogen train by December 2024: Reports
The app, promoted by various influential figures, reportedly enticed users with promises of significant investment returns. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (IFSO) Hemant Tiwari, HIBOX was part of a meticulously orchestrated scam that guaranteed daily returns of one to five percent, totaling 30 to 90 percent monthly. Over 30,000 individuals invested in the app. Tiwari also confirmed to PTI that the app’s operators assured these substantial returns to potential investors.
Read More: Chennai’s Marina Beach to host grand air show on Oct 6: Traffic advisory issued
Launched in February, the app initially provided high returns to investors but began withholding payments from July, citing technical problems and legal complications. Influencers such as Saurav Joshi, Abhishek Malhan, Purav Jha, Harsh Limbachiya, Lakshay Choudhary, Adarsh Singh, and Amit and Dilraj Singh Rawat have received legal notices. Additionally, the primary accused, Sivaram from Chennai, has been arrested, with Rs 18 crore seized from four of his accounts.
