Cyber Criminals’ New Playbook Exposed

Cyber Criminals’ New Playbook: Malware, Fake Investments and Social Media Scams Run Together

A recent bust by the North Cyber Police of Mumbai Police has uncovered a complex cyber fraud network operating across India, involving malware distribution, fake investment schemes, and social media scams. The arrested accused, 23-year-old Narayan Shankar Mali, was identified as a key player in the network, which used a legitimate-looking ice cream shop in Surat as a front.

Technical Probe Unravels the Network

According to police officials, Mali was traced through bank KYC records, digital trails, and technical analysis carried out by the cyber team. He was apprehended in Surat and brought to Mumbai for further interrogation. Preliminary investigations suggest that Mali acted as a financial coordinator and digital distributor within the network, facilitating the routing of defrauded funds through multiple bank accounts and circulating fraudulent application links used in various scams.

E-Challan Malware Attack on Bank Accounts

During questioning, investigators uncovered Mali’s alleged involvement in an e-challan malware racket. The gang reportedly sent fake e-challan APK files to thousands of mobile numbers across India. Once installed, the malware compromised bank accounts, allowing the gang to siphon off funds. Police said Mali worked in coordination with four associates based in Rajasthan’s Bhilwara district to operate this module, earning commissions for each successful malware installation.

Investment and ‘Like-and-Share’ Scams Also Active

The investigation further revealed that the network was running fake investment and share trading schemes, luring victims with promises of high returns. Through fraudulent apps and websites, investors were shown fabricated profits while the actual funds were siphoned off into multiple accounts. In the “like-and-review” social media scam, individuals were initially offered small payments for liking or reviewing online content. Later, they were persuaded to deposit larger sums under various pretexts, ultimately resulting in financial loss.

Interstate Links Under Scanner

Police have begun analyzing seized digital devices, bank records, and transaction trails to identify additional suspects and beneficiaries. The possible involvement of associates in Gujarat and Rajasthan is also under investigation. Officials believe the network may have operated across multiple states, though the total amount siphoned off is still being assessed. The accused remains in police custody as further questioning continues.

Advisory to Citizens

Cyber police have urged citizens not to fall prey to such scams, emphasizing the importance of verifying the authenticity of investment schemes and being cautious when downloading apps or clicking on links. The case highlights the growing sophistication of cybercrime networks that use legitimate-looking businesses as fronts while running coordinated digital fraud operations nationwide.

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Vaibhav

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