cyber crime news Archives - Page 11 of 12

Bengal Police busts Jamtara cyber scam, 46 arrested in statewide crackdown

Bengal Police busts Jamtara cyber scam The West Bengal Police, in collaboration with the Cyber Crime Wing (CCW), conducted multiple raids across various locations, leading to the arrest of 46 individuals involved in financial scams and cyber fraud. The 15-day-long operation targeted cybercriminal networks operating along the Jharkhand-West Bengal border. Cyber Shakti Operation is launched in West Bengal to curb cyber crime under the leadership of DIG Cyber Crime West Bengal Amitkumar Rathod. Targeted Raids and Key Locations Recognizing Jamtara as a cybercrime hub, the first raid was carried out in Khoyrasol, Birbhum, followed by operations in Chandannagar, ADPC, Purba Burdwan, and Hooghly. These raids focused on dismantling networks engaged in online financial scams, digital extortion, fake SIM card trading, and other cyber frauds. Seized Items and Fraudulent Activities During the operation, authorities seized: Rs 4,50,000 in cash 84 SIM cards 84 mobile phones 19 debit cards 02 laptops 29 bank accounts linked to fraud cases The arrested individuals were part of organized cybercrime networks defrauding victims through fake investment schemes, OTP frauds, sextortion, online job scams, gas subsidy frauds, UPI frauds, and digital impersonation. Ongoing Investigation and Commitment to Justice The Bengal Police arrested suspects are in custody, and investigations continue to uncover additional perpetrators and dismantle the larger cyber fraud nexus. This operation underscores West Bengal Police’s commitment to curbing cybercrime and protecting citizens from digital fraud.

Mira Bhayandar: MBVV Police Recover ₹3.54 Lakh Lost To Cyber Frauds

In the first case, the MBVV police cyber cell received a complaint from a resident that he had fallen prey to the evil designs of cyber criminals who posed as representatives of a banking institution and cheated him of Rs 72,511 under the guise of helping him clear obstacles he was facing while using his credit card. Officials from the cyber cell attached to the Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar MBVV police successfully managed to make collective reversals amounting to more than Rs 3.54 lakh which three people had lost to online frauds. In the first case, the cyber cell received a complaint from a resident that he had fallen prey to the evil designs of cyber criminals who posed as representatives of a banking institution and cheated him of Rs 72,511 under the guise of helping him clear obstacles he was facing while using his credit card. While the second complainant identified as Mr. Chauhan lost more than Rs 1.47 lakh after he clicked a malicious link sent by the cybercrooks, another person Shashi Pal was cheated of more than Rs 1.35 lakh with a lure of earning money by participating in online tasks including posting likes, reviews on YouTube videos and online rating to hotels/movies. Immediately after receiving the complaints, personnel from the cyber cell led by police inspector Sujitkumar Gunjkar started investigations and identified the bank accounts and e-commerce shopping portals in which the ill-gotten wealth had been parked. After continuous follow-ups with the concerned banks and the gateway of the digital platform that provided payment solutions, they managed to freeze Rs 72,511 and Rs 1.47 lakh respectively. The amount was reversed to the bank accounts of the complainants’ account following orders from the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC), Thane. The MBVV police cyber cell handed over symbolic cheques to the complainants confirming the reversals. With the latest recoveries, the MBVV police have managed to revert more than Rs.1 crore lost by complainants in various cases of cyber-frauds in the past couple of months. Stressing the need to be careful while dealing with unknown callers/senders and to lodge complaints as soon as possible (Golden Hour), MBVV police commissioner Madhukar Pandey said that people can contact the local police stations or directly approach or call the cybercrime cell on 1930 with an additional option of reporting online frauds through email at www.cybercrime.gov.in or on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP)

Coimbatore doctor cheated of ₹15 lahks in online trading scam

A Coimbatore doctor lost ₹15.50 lakh in a cyber scam after clicking a YouTube link. He was lured into a WhatsApp group with fraudulent trading tips and installed a deceptive app. Investigations are ongoing, highlighting the need for public vigilance against online investment fraud. A doctor from Coimbatore doctor has fallen victim to a sophisticated cyber scam, losing a staggering ₹15.50 lakh after clicking on a seemingly harmless YouTube link between December 2024 and January 2025. The fraud highlights the growing menace of online investment traps. Dr Karthik, an active stock market investor with a Demat account, was browsing investment-related content on YouTube when he stumbled upon a link promising exclusive trading insights. Upon clicking it, he was unwittingly added to a WhatsApp group named “49 Upstocks Wealth Group,” where supposed trading experts shared lucrative stock market tips, the publication added. According to the report, Coimbatore doctor Dr Karthik was persuaded by the group’s seemingly credible discussions and expressed interest in their investment scheme. Subsequently, the fraudsters instructed the Coimbatore doctor to download a trading application called “UP Institutions” via a link provided by the group. Trusting the group’s recommendations, the Coimbatore doctor installed the app on 31 December 2024 and, over the following weeks, transferred a total of ₹15.50 lakh in nine instalments Reportedly, the app initially displayed an impressive balance of ₹25.86 lakh, leading Dr Karthik to believe his investments were flourishing. However, his confidence quickly crumbled when he attempted to withdraw his earnings, only to find himself locked out of the platform. It was then that he realised he had fallen prey to an elaborate scam. Upon complaining, the cybercrime police registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. Investigations are now underway to trace the fraudsters and recover the lost funds. Authorities continue to warn the public against such deceptive schemes. If you receive unsolicited investment links or are added to suspicious WhatsApp groups, it is advisable to report and block them immediately. In the unfortunate event of falling victim to such a scam, swift action by reporting to the police can increase the chances of tracking transactions and reclaiming lost money. Online investment scams are on the rise, and vigilance remains the best defence against financial fraud. Always verify the authenticity of trading platforms and refrain from making transactions based on unsolicited advice from unknown sources.

Cybercriminals’ New Scam: Targeting Porn Viewers

Cybercriminals New Scam: Targeting Porn Viewers have devised a new tactic to trap people. The fraudsters are using fake emails and phone calls in the name of the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) to intimidate their victims. Cybercriminals have devised a new tactic to trap people. They are using fake emails and phone calls in the name of the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) to intimidate victims. Posing as CBI officers, they claim that a person’s Google history reveals excessive pornography consumption and that an arrest warrant is being issued. To avoid arrest, victims are pressured into paying the sums demanded by these criminals. The fake email IDs the criminals use closely resemble those of the CBI and the police. When the victim realises what’s happening, the money has already been withdrawn from their bank account. Data Leaks Through Multiple Avenues Data breaches occur at multiple levels. If you have accessed your ID on another computer or mobile device or logged into a website using Google Mail, you risk data leakage. Possible Countermeasures Immediately report for Targeting Porn Viewers the cyber fraud by calling 1930. Immediately file a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal. This portal requires information to be filled in various categories, including financial fraud, women-child-related fraud, and others. File a report at the local cyber crime police station. Case 1: An individual receives a CBI email tracing Google history that claims excessive pornography consumption Targeting Porn Viewers. A PDF attachment with a warrant is included, bearing a stamp resembling that of a government office. The individual is instructed to appear at an office in Delhi. Case 2: A shopkeeper receives a phone call from someone claiming to be an intelligence inspector. The caller states that the mobile history reveals consistent pornography viewing Targeting Porn Viewers, threatening legal consequences and demanding an appearance in a Delhi court. Expert View Cybercriminals send numerous phishing emails simultaneously, and two or three out of a hundred people fall prey. They mostly target older people who lack technological knowledge. When a cyber fraud trend is exposed, cybercriminals change their tactics every six months to a year.

Cybercrime in Hyderabad: Police Dismantle Nationwide Fraud Network

Cybercrime in Hyderabad: Police Crack Down on Nationwide Financial Fraud Network Hyderabad, Jan 10: In a significant move to combat cybercrime in Hyderabad, the city police have arrested 23 offenders involved in a massive nationwide financial fraud network. This breakthrough came after coordinated operations across Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Large-Scale Cybercrime Network Uncovered The arrests revealed the involvement of the suspects in 30 cases within Telangana and 359 cases across the country. The fraudulent activities, which included scams targeting innocent individuals, resulted in financial losses amounting to Rs 5.30 crore. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cybercrimes), Dara Kavitha, emphasized the rise of cybercrime in Hyderabad and outlined the efforts of five dedicated teams that uncovered the syndicate’s operations. The investigations exposed sophisticated methods used by the criminals, leveraging loopholes in systems to execute large-scale scams. Types of Cyber Fraud and Seizures The cases detected include: Investment fraud: 5 cases Digital arrest scams: 2 cases Trading fraud: 3 cases Job fraud: 2 cases APK file fraud: 1 case The police seized a range of items used in the frauds, such as: Rs 40,000 in cash 25 mobile phones 45 SIM cards 29 bank passbooks/checkbooks 23 debit and credit cards A laptop Three QR code scanners Five shell company stamps Victim Relief and Preventive Measures As part of the operation, Rs 39 lakh was recovered and refunded to victims in three cases. This reflects the commitment of the cybercrime unit in ensuring justice for victims of cybercrime in Hyderabad and across India. DCP Kavitha praised the coordinated efforts that led to the dismantling of organized fraud networks. She stressed the importance of citizen awareness in combating cyber scams. Cybercrime Prevention Tips for Citizens The Hyderabad police issued a set of advisories to protect citizens from falling victim to scams. Key recommendations include: Avoid interacting with unknown individuals on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Telegram. Be cautious of platforms offering high returns on small investments. Remember that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not issue digital arrests or demand money to prove innocence. Verify suspicious claims by visiting your nearest police station. A Step Forward in Fighting Cybercrime in Hyderabad This operation marks a crucial step in addressing cybercrime in Hyderabad and dismantling fraudulent networks on a national scale. The Hyderabad police’s efforts underline their commitment to protecting citizens and preventing future scams.

This state in India has saved $31.2 million from cyber criminals

According to Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur, the police also tied up with major banks, which led to 15 nodal officers from 10 major banks joining forces with the police on a common platform to combat cybercrime Police in Haryana claimed on 9 Jan 2025 that the north Indian state is the first in the country in terms of the number of cybercrime tackled or prevented in 2024. It has saved about $31.2 million from cybercrime up from $8.9 mn in 2023. This amount is five times more than what was saved in 2022. Haryana’s police also successfully recovered and refunded fraudulently siphoned money to victims. In 2023, they were given back $3.8 million, which increased by November 2024 to $11 million. Smart strategies: Stronger alliance with banks The success, said the police, came as a result of learning and understanding the methods of cyber criminals and working closely with the banks. The Indian state has also increased the number of police personnel on its cyber helpline 1930 (which is a toll-free helpline number in India for reporting cyber crimes) from a workforce of 12 to 70. According to Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur, the police also tied up with major banks, which led to 15 nodal officers from 10 major banks joining forces with the police on a common platform to combat cybercrime. Cyber police have been running after the Lok Adalats to return money to the victims without going through a long judicial process. Increase in cases and arrests According to Kapur, the Haryana Police made several strides in eliminating cybercrime. In 2024, the police registered 5,511 cases of cyber fraud, more than double the 2,747 cases registered in 2023 and up from 2,165 cases in 2022. Arrests also surged, with the police arresting 5,156 cybercriminals in 2024 compared to 1,909 in 2023 and 1,078 in 2022. A notable 70 percent (3,555) of those arrested were from other states, and the police averaged 14 arrests per day. Kapur praised the efforts of the entire cyber team for their dedication and hard work in tackling the crime saying, “The work done by our cyber cell has brought us to the top in terms of blocking cyber fraud and recovering stolen funds.” Improved cyber fraud prevention Haryana Police’s efforts have also enhanced the rate at which fraudulent amounts are blocked. The rate of blocked amounts in cyber fraud cases rose from 7 percent in September 2023 to 36 percent in December 2024, making it the highest in the country. Following this, if a victim files a complaint within six hours after the fraud, then 70 percent of lost money is blocked. This is also the highest percentage within the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah honored the Haryana police for their success in reducing cybercrime in 2024. He lauded the police’s work in running the cyber helpline DGP Kapur revealed that the police managed to close 2,83,589 bank accounts and 1,24,565 mobile numbers involved in cyber fraud.

The WhatsApp Wedding Invitation Scam: How to Protect Yourself from Digital Fraud

Sending wedding invitations is easier than ever. Digital Fraud invitations can easily replace traditional paper cards. However, this shift has opened doors for a dangerous trend: the WhatsApp wedding scam. Fraudsters are now using fake wedding invitations to target unsuspecting individuals, and you could be their next victim. In this article, you can get more information about fake wedding invitation scams. How the Fake Wedding Invitation Scam Works Imagine receiving a WhatsApp message from an unknown number. The sender claims to be inviting you to a wedding. The message feels genuine, with friendly language and attachments labeled as wedding cards. Without much thought, you tap on the file to see the invite. However, these attachments are not actual invitations but malicious APK files. Typically, APK or Android Package Kit files are used to install apps on Android devices. If these APK files are corrupted and you download and open them, you may unknowingly grant the scammers access to your device. The digital wedding Digital Fraud feels personal and believable. Weddings are joyous occasions, and most people wouldn’t suspect foul play. Scammers exploit this trust to trick you into downloading malware. How a Fake Wedding Invitation Scam Can Lead to Financial Losses If you fall victim to this digital wedding scam, you could face financial losses in the following ways: Compromised Sensitive Banking Data: Through malware, cybercriminals can extract banking information you may have saved on your phone. This could include account numbers, card details, passwords to various financial accounts, payment details saved on browsers, and auto-fill credentials. OTP Theft: Scammers can use malware to intercept messages containing OTPs. This way, they can authorize unauthorized payments or money transfers. They can also gain access to your banking and payment apps. Exploiting Payment Apps: Malware can allow scammers to access banking and payment apps. They can use the information stored in the app to steal money from your accounts. Saved card details could be used to make fraudulent transactions. Unauthorized Subscription to Paid Services: Cybercriminals may use your compromised data to subscribe to premium services, apps, or websites. These services might charge recurring fees directly to your Credit or Debit Card. Hence, you ought to check your transaction history regularly to prevent scammers from draining your funds. Account Takeover: By hijacking your financial accounts, Digital Fraud can lock you out of your accounts and steal your money. They may also use your account to conduct fraudulent activities. Therefore, you must report this immediately and protect yourself from liabilities. Identity Theft: This digital wedding Digital Fraud can also put your personal identification details at risk. Scammers can access these details saved on your phone and use them to open new accounts, apply for Credit Cards or loans, or impersonate you to commit Digital Fraud. Phishing: Malware can enable scammers to monitor your activities and create opportunities for phishing. This may include sending targeted phishing emails or messages to trick you into sharing more private information. Extortion: Fraudsters can use your data to blackmail you. They can demand ransom in exchange for not leaking sensitive photos and videos. This can lead to not only monetary losses but also emotional distress. How to Spot and Avoid the WhatsApp Wedding Scam By staying cautious, you can avoid falling victim to this fake wedding invitation scam. Here are some simple steps: Be Wary of Unknown Numbers: Be suspicious if you receive a message from a number you don’t recognize. Digital Fraud often target random users, hoping someone will take the bait. Verify the Sender: Before downloading any file, confirm its authenticity. If it’s a wedding invitation, ask the sender directly—preferably through a call or message on another platform. Avoid Downloading APK Files: Typically, you’d receive wedding invitations in the form of images, video files, or URLs as they are convenient. Legitimate wedding invitations don’t require you to download separate apps. Use Antivirus Software: You can keep your phone secure with antivirus apps for Digital Fraud. These can detect and block malware before it causes harm with Digital Fraud. Enable Security Features: Review your phone’s permissions from time to time. Make sure your apps can’t access sensitive data without your explicit consent with Digital Fraud. How Do You Know Your Phone Has Malware? Your phone may be infected with malware if you notice the following: You notice an increased number of pop-ups and inappropriate ads. You see apps you haven’t downloaded or don’t recognize. You may not be able to uninstall unrecognized apps. You notice your phone slows down or crashes often. Your contacts may receive messages that you did not send. You may see unauthorized transactions in your account due to scammers using bank details saved on your phone to subscribe to paid services. What to Do If You’re a Victim Taking prompt action can minimize the damage against this fraud on WhatsApp: Disconnect Your Phone: You must immediately switch off Wi-Fi and mobile data to limit the hacker’s access. Change Your Passwords: Update all important accounts, especially banking, email, and social media, to prevent further misuse. Alert Your Contacts: If scammers are using your WhatsApp account to send fraudulent messages, inform your contacts not to engage. Report the Incident: Don’t let cybercriminals get away. Report the scam to authorities by dialing 1930, the National Cyber Crime portal helpline in India. You can also visit https://cybercrime.gov.in to complain. Protecting Yourself in a Digital World and Stay Vigilant As the use of Digital Fraud platforms grows, scams like the WhatsApp wedding scam will only become more sophisticated. Staying informed is your best definition. *Disclaimer: Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your circumstances.

TGCSB organizes Cyber Awareness Day to tackle digital frauds

Telangana Cyber Security Bureau Launches ‘Cyber Jaagrookta Diwas’ to Combat digital arrest Scams The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) started the New Year with a special initiative called ‘Cyber Jaagrookta Diwas’. On 08/01/2025, the bureau held 394 meetings and 23 awareness rallies across the state. These events aimed to educate people about the risks of digital arrest scams, reaching 35,700 participants from all walks of life. The campaign focuses on teaching citizens about emerging cyber threats and promoting public safety online. It emphasizes the importance of practicing good cyber hygiene, being cautious while using the internet, and understanding the dangers of sharing personal or financial details with strangers. Throughout January, TGCSB will continue its mission to spread awareness about digital arrest scams. This will include organizing workshops, community outreach programs, and additional rallies to educate more people. These scams involve fraudsters pretending to be law enforcement officials. They claim that the victim is under investigation or has an outstanding arrest warrant and demand payments through RTGS or NEFT to avoid immediate arrest. Scammers often use fake documents, spoofed caller IDs, or video calls to make their claims appear legitimate. The bureau has issued a reminder to the public: no police officer or law enforcement agency will conduct investigations over phone or video calls, or demand money transfers for any reason. Genuine officers do not ask for payments to cancel warrants or settle cases. In its advisory, TGCSB urged citizens to stay alert and avoid falling prey to such digital arrest scams. “Be skeptical of any calls, messages, or emails claiming to be from law enforcement or government agencies that request immediate payment or sensitive information,” the bureau advised. By staying informed and cautious, people can protect themselves from these fraudulent schemes.

Cyber-crime police station issues advisory over fraudulent websites offering online booking during MahaKumbh

The Mahakumbh is set to be held in Prayagraj starting January 13 and will continue till February 26. Lakhs of devotees from across the country and even abroad are expected to visit the Kumbh Mela. THE CYBER CRIME police station in Pimpri Chinchwad has issued an advisory, cautioning residents about fraudulent websites swindling people on the pretext of online booking for stay and passes or seeking donations for events. The Mahakumbh is set to be held in Prayagraj starting January 13 and will continue till February 26. Lakhs of devotees from across the country and even abroad are expected to visit the Kumbh Mela. An advisory issued by the Pimpri Chinchwad police on 09/01/2025 night read, “A large number of fake websites, links, and other platforms have been created on the internet and social media to exploit the faith of the devotees who wish to visit the Mahakumbh. This has come to the attention of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Ministry of Home Affairs. On this background, Pimpri Chinchwad police are issuing an advisory cautioning people to beware of these scams.” The advisory further reads, “The victim can be potentially cheated in different ways. Fraudulent websites, links, and other platforms can cheat people on the pretext of collecting donations from devotees. Devotees can also be cheated on the pretext of bookings for hotels, tents, and other types of accommodations at the event.” Some of these platforms can ask devotees to download malicious files and gain access to the users’ devices, officials said. The advisory further reads, “Devotees should not click on any questionable websites or links. All the official information about the Mahakumbh can be obtained from kumbh.gov.in which is the official website of the event. Do not share sensitive financial information, or passwords with the callers or platforms. Approach the cybercrime helpline or nearest police station in case of suspicion of cheating.” Officials said that cyber dost, which is the official platform of the I4C, has shared names of authorized locations for stays, hotels, and guest houses for Kumbh. When contacted, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) for Pimpri Chinchwad Sandeep Doiphode said, “We have not yet reported any cases of cheating related to Mahakumbh. However, based on observation from Central entities, we have issued the advisory cautioning people as a large number of devotees from here may visit the event.”

Cyber Fraud Victim Wins: Supreme Court Directs SBI to Repay Stolen Funds

The Supreme Court has upheld justice for a cyber fraud victim, directing the State Bank of India (SBI) to refund Rs 94,000 stolen during an online scam. The judgment highlights the bank’s accountability and failure to act promptly despite receiving timely fraud reports. In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India directed the State Bank of India (SBI) to refund Rs 94,000 to a victim of cyber fraud from Assam. The case has brought into sharp focus the responsibilities of financial institutions in safeguarding their customers’ funds against fraudulent activities. The Incident The cyber fraud occurred when the victim attempted to return a Louis Philippe blazer worth Rs 4,000. Posing as a customer service representative, the fraudster tricked the victim into installing a malicious app, leading to the theft of Rs 94,204 from his SBI savings account. The stolen money was transferred across multiple bank accounts via UPI transactions. The root of the issue lay in a 2021 data breach on Louis Philippe’s website, which compromised sensitive customer details, including the victim’s contact information. Exploiting this data, the fraudster carried out the scam, leaving the victim with a blazer he no longer wanted and an empty bank account. Legal Battle After discovering the fraudulent transactions, the victim immediately contacted State Bank of India to block his account and card. He also filed complaints with the Assam Police, the RBI Banking Ombudsman, and the Ministry of Home Affairs through its National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. However, he faced resistance from State Bank of India , which refused to take responsibility, citing the use of Google Pay—a third-party app not recommended by the bank. Unyielding, the victim pursued legal remedies through the Gauhati High Court, which found State Bank of India at fault for not taking timely action despite being informed within hours of the scam. The High Court ordered the bank to refund the full amount. Supreme Court Verdict SBI escalated the matter to the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court’s decision. However, the apex court upheld the previous judgment, emphasizing that the bank, equipped with advanced technology, failed to act promptly to prevent the fraud. The Supreme Court ordered State Bank of India to refund the stolen amount and recover it from the fraudster, who had been apprehended by the Assam Police. The court also highlighted the importance of vigilance by both banks and customers. While banks must utilize their technological resources to detect and prevent cyber fraud, customers are advised to exercise caution when sharing sensitive information or using third-party payment apps. Key Observations SBI was informed of the fraud within hours but failed to take corrective action, such as lodging a chargeback request or initiating investigations. The bank’s argument, citing Google Pay’s third-party status, was rejected by the court, which held SBI accountable for protecting its customers’ interests. The judgment serves as a precedent, reinforcing the accountability of banks in cyber fraud cases and emphasizing timely action to mitigate losses. Conclusion This case underscores the increasing prevalence of cyber fraud and the need for both banks and customers to remain vigilant. The Supreme Court’s ruling has not only delivered justice to the victim but also set a benchmark for addressing cybercrime-related financial disputes, ensuring that victims are not left to bear the brunt of such crimes.

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