The Trap Began with a Tempting Social Media Ad

In January 2025, a resident of Lajares, a small town in Fuerteventura, became a victim of a fake investment scam, prompting him to alert the authorities. The scheme’s inception was a captivating advertisement encountered on Instagram, promising rapid and foolproof returns in the realm of digital investments.

The Allure of Easy Money

The advertisement led victims to a seemingly legitimate page that requested personal information, paving the way for numerous interactions with supposed financial advisors. These advisors were not only persuasive but also donned a professional veneer, fostering a sense of trust. Under their guidance, the victim made several bank transfers, fully believing that his savings would multiply.

Discovery of the Deception

As time passed, the absence of tangible results instilled doubt. Realizing he had been duped, the victim promptly filed a complaint with the Civil Guard’s specialized Cybercrime Unit. This move set off an investigation that traced the funds to a woman, aged 62, who lived in Madrid.

The Financial Trail

Authorities found that this woman received a staggering total of €23,000 from the victim’s bank transfers. Consequently, she was scrutinized for her suspected involvement in fraud and money laundering. The investigation led to the case being submitted to the Instruction Court in Puerto del Rosario, where proceedings are ongoing.

Tips from the Civil Guard Regarding Online Scams

In light of such incidents, authorities emphasize the critical need for vigilance against advertisements that promise high returns for minimal investment in a short period. The digital investment landscape is particularly volatile, attracting fraudsters looking for unsuspecting victims. The Civil Guard advises individuals to always verify the legitimacy of platforms and, where possible, seek independent financial advice.

The Role of Social Media in Victim Recruitment

Platforms like Instagram have become favorite hunting grounds for scammers launching campaigns aimed at luring the uninformed. The combination of visually appealing designs and guaranteed profit promises proves an effective trap, particularly for those lacking experience in financial matters.

This particular case, known as the ‘Majoma’ operation, illustrates the increase in digital scams in Spain and the sophistication of tactics employed by criminals. Quick reporting and community cooperation are essential for authorities to act swiftly and mitigate further victimization.

The Ongoing Efforts of the Civil Guard

The Civil Guard continues its work on this case, underscoring the real consequences of online fraud on individuals’ lives and the pressing need for enhanced digital prevention measures. With scams becoming increasingly complex, awareness and education are critical tools in combatting this growing threat.