Japanese Woman Loses 82 Million Yen in Investment Scam via SNS with Fake Police Officer Intimidation

A woman in her 60s from Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, lost approximately 82 million yen in a sophisticated investment scam. Scammers posing as investment professionals on social media lured her into multiple transactions totaling 17 transfers over several months.

Overview of the Scam

A woman in her 60s from Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture, became a victim of an investment scam conducted via social media, losing approximately 82 million yen in cash and cryptocurrency. According to police, this is the highest amount of fraud damage reported in Kakegawa Police Station this fiscal year.

How the Scam Works

Initial Contact

Scammers placed stock investment advertisements on social media platforms. The fraudsters, posing as investment professionals, approached victims and promised attractive returns, claiming that "once your principal investment reaches 5 million yen, you can continue investing indefinitely with guaranteed returns."

Repeated Payment Requests

After initial contact, the scammers impersonated investment assistants and communicated with victims through LINE messaging app. Through ongoing communications, victims were tricked into making 17 separate transfers of cash and cryptocurrency.

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Danger of Social Media Investment Ads

Most investment-related advertisements on social media promote non-existent investment opportunities
Claims of "permanent," "guaranteed," or "assured profits" are hallmarks of fraudulent schemes
Scammers use social media advertising as a screening tool to target vulnerable victims

Staged Payment Requests

Typical scam patterns involve requests for "initial small amounts" followed by claims that "larger additional investments are needed for better returns"
Once victims make initial payments, scammers continuously create new pretexts for additional transfers
Multiple transfer requests spanning 17 occasions is a strong indicator of fraud

Unverifiable Investment Professionals

Legitimate investment companies can be verified through official websites and regulatory registrations
If you can only contact an investor or assistant through social media, they are likely fraudulent
The absence of in-person meetings or formal contracts is a major red flag

Prevention Tips

Avoid Responding to Social Media Investment Pitches: Legitimate investment opportunities are found through regulated financial institutions, not social media advertisements
Verify with Regulatory Authorities: Always check the Financial Services Agency (FSA) registry to confirm whether an investment company is legitimate and registered
Be Extra Cautious with Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency transfers are irreversible and untraceable. Any investment scheme requesting cryptocurrency payments is extremely dangerous
Consult with Family or Trusted Advisors: Before making large transfers, always discuss with family members or trusted third parties
Multiple Payment Requests Are a Major Warning Sign: If you're repeatedly asked to send money under pretexts such as "reaching target principal" or "unlocking better returns," immediately cease communication and report to authorities

Where to Report

Police Consultation Line: #9110 (nationwide)
Fraud Victim Hotline: Local police headquarters
Financial Services Agency (FSA): https://www.fsa.go.jp/
Consumer Affairs Agency: Consumer Hotline 188

If you suspect you've fallen victim to fraud or received suspicious investment solicitations, contact these resources immediately without hesitation.