If you’ve been scrolling through trading Twitter lately, you’ve probably seen influencers flaunting massive profits — calling it prop desk trading.
It sounds exciting, right? Trade using a firm’s capital, share profits, and skip the risk.
But lately, that dream has started to look like a trap.
A new wave of “prop desk” accounts has popped up online, promising mentorship, funded trading, and massive returns. And now, one of them — iTrade DJ (@ITRADE191) — is under fire after multiple users accused him of scamming traders.
Let’s understand what’s really happening, why prop desk trading is being misused, and what you can do to stay safe.
iTrade191 Prop Desk Trading Fraud
ITrade191 , run by a social media trader known as “iTrade DJ”. It drew massive attention from retail traders after several posts surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) alleging large-scale fraud and fund mismanagement.
According to multiple online reports, iTrade191 reportedly raised funds from several traders and dealers under the banner of prop desk trading, promising high returns, access to capital, and professional trading setups.
But as the screenshots below show, what followed was chaos, blame, and vanished funds.
A verified Twitter user called this the “Jainam Prop Scam”, alleging that a Delhi-based trader, iTrade DJ, lost nearly ₹35 crores — with total losses reportedly touching ₹60 crores.
The post highlights how dealers who had deposited money for leverage ended up losing everything, with neither the broker Jainam nor the individual behind iTrade taking responsibility.
This post set the stage for wider public outrage, as it indicated that what began as a trading partnership spiraled into a full-blown financial mess, leaving retail traders stranded.
Another user shared alleged call details involving @ITRADE191, claiming that the trader discouraged others from escalating the matter, warning that refunds wouldn’t be processed if more people got involved.
The tweet further points out that he wasn’t officially a director in his own company, DJ iTrade Capital, suggesting premeditated intent.
It even names others who might have promoted him, implying a deeper network of influencers and collaborators who helped push the scheme.
This one went viral. The post claimed that iTrade DJ disappeared after misusing or losing nearly ₹60 crore of investor funds.
Sources alleged that he placed risky shorts on Nifty and wiped out client capital, while others said he used “charity-themed videos” to build public trust before vanishing.
The post ends by stating that authorities are verifying the claims — but for the affected traders, the damage had already been done.
iTrade DJ Telegram Channel
Darshan Joshi, the individual behind the Twitter handle @iTrade191, is reportedly not personally operating the associated Telegram channel. Instead, the channel has been promoted by Mitesh Patel through his own Telegram network.
It is alleged that Darshan Joshi engaged in misleading practices by sharing fabricated profit screenshots to attract and induce investors. According to several sources, he is now absconding with approximately ₹60 crore, allegedly shifting blame onto Jainam Broking.
Below are screenshots from the Telegram channel showing the grievances and issues currently being raised by affected individuals.
Telegram Channel “Inner Circle Wizards”
Much of iTrade191’s activity reportedly took place inside a Telegram group called “Inner Circle Wizards.” It was marketed as an exclusive trading circle where members could learn, access capital, and trade under iTrade DJ’s guidance.
Many traders say they were asked to deposit small amounts as “security” or “funding fees,” only to see the admins disappear later.
How to Spot a Prop Desk Trap?
The iTrade191 episode isn’t an isolated case — it’s a reminder that even smart traders can fall for a polished pitch. Most scams start with trust, not greed. Here’s how to spot the early signs before your money’s gone:
- Too good to be true profits: If someone promises consistent returns or “risk-free” trading, it’s not trading — it’s bait.
- Private Telegram or WhatsApp groups: Legitimate trading firms never operate solely on encrypted chat apps.
- No verified registration: Always check if the company is registered with SEBI or has a valid broker affiliation.
- Pressure to deposit upfront: Real prop firms evaluate skills before funding you — they don’t ask for fees just to “join.”
Trading education and mentorship are fine — but the moment it involves unverified fund transfers or vague “capital pools,” it’s a red flag. Stay alert, do your due diligence, and never confuse popularity with credibility.
How to Report iTrade DJ?
If you’ve lost money to iTrade191 or any similar prop desk trading setup, don’t ignore it. Reporting these cases helps prevent others from falling for the same trap.
Here’s how you can take the first step:
- File Cyber Crime Complaint: File an online complaint under the financial fraud category in the cyber crime official portal. Keep screenshots, chat proofs, and payment details ready — they’ll help strengthen your case.
- File a Complaint in SEBI: You can also inform market regulators if the platform or trader falsely claims to be registered or affiliated with any licensed firm.
- Bank Dispute: If you made a transfer, alert your bank’s fraud department immediately; they can flag or trace suspicious transactions.
Need Help?
If you’ve been misled by a prop desk trading group like iTrade191 or lost money to a fake mentorship scheme, you’re not alone.
Register with us and let our team assist you in tracing the issue and protecting your future trades
We will guide you on how to take the next steps toward reporting or recovery.
Conclusion
The iTrade191 saga is a reminder that not every trading “opportunity” comes from a genuine desk. What began as a promise of mentorship and funded trading turned into one of the most talked-about prop desk frauds online — leaving hundreds questioning who to trust next.
Prop desk trading, when done through licensed firms, can be a legitimate career path. But when it happens in closed Telegram groups or under flashy social media names, it’s usually a trap waiting to spring. Stay alert, verify every claim, and never transfer money to unverified individuals.
