Bitcoins or such cryptocurrencies are not legal tender in the country. (Representational)
A case has been filed against seven people for allegedly cheating a man to the tune of Rs 22.59 lakh after pursuing him to invest in bitcoins launched by a company, police said today.
A case of cheating has been registered at the Khadakpada police station.
No arrest has been made so far, the police said.
The victim, Raghuveer Kulkarni, 45, was introduced to a bitcoin investment scheme of a company by one of his friends who promised him good returns, they said.
Accordingly, since February 2017, he invested a total of Rs 22.59 lakh into the company.
However, the accused, who were associated with the company, did not pay Mr Kulkarni any money and closed down their business and fled, the police said.
Bitcoin is a form of digital currency that is supposed to provide a secure and private alternative to conventional money.
According to the government, bitcoins or such cryptocurrencies are not legal tender in the country.