3-Year Crackdown: 9 Fake Call Centres Busted, 243 Arrested in Cyber Fraud Scandal

3 Years, 9 Fake Call Centres Busted, 243 Arrested; Foreign Nationals Targeted in Cyber Fraud

Overview of the Fraud Operations

Noida and Greater Noida have become hubs for cyber fraud operations targeting international citizens over the past three years. Law enforcement agencies have dismantled nine fake call centers involved in schemes deceiving individuals from the United States, Canada, and other countries. A total of 243 suspects have been detained in these investigations.

Tactics Used by Perpetrators

Investigations revealed that perpetrators employed multiple tactics to deceive victims. Some impersonated technical support representatives from private companies, while others posed as government officials. Additional strategies included offering low-cost loans and enticing gift vouchers before demanding payments under the guise of processing fees.

Structure of the Call Centers

The call centers were equipped with computers, laptops, high-speed internet, headphones, and advanced calling systems to reach overseas targets. Operations were structured to mimic legitimate corporate environments, complicating detection efforts.

Recruitment and Training

Young individuals were recruited and trained to engage with foreign nationals. Those demonstrating strong English communication and technical skills received competitive compensation and were assigned to call duties. They were provided with scripted instructions to manipulate victims into making payments.

Infrastructure and Location

The region’s infrastructure, including accessible office spaces, reliable internet connectivity, a skilled youth workforce, and proximity to the Delhi-NCR area, facilitated these activities. Fraud networks reportedly leased temporary premises and relocated when police scrutiny intensified.

Recent Operations and Arrests

In January 2024, a call center in Sector 59 was dismantled. Operators allegedly contacted victims by posing as private company representatives, leading to the arrest of 25 suspects. Digital evidence related to the center’s international communications was recovered. A second operation in July 2025 targeted the JP Cosmos area. The gang reportedly lured U.S. citizens with loan offers and gift vouchers, demanding processing fees. Twelve individuals were arrested. In September 2026, authorities disrupted a call center in Sector 142 that focused on American victims, resulting in three arrests. A separate center in Sector 3 under the Phase-1 police station jurisdiction was also uncovered, with seven suspects detained.

Challenges in Combating Cyber Fraud

Investigators found that this operation aimed to exploit foreign nationals through various cyber fraud schemes. Despite repeated law enforcement actions, new call centers continue to emerge. Fraud networks are reportedly adopting new identities and shifting methods to evade detection. These operations often involve multiple layers, including call center agents, technical support teams, data suppliers, and individuals managing illicit funds. The persistence of these activities underscores the challenges faced by investigators in dismantling organized cybercrime networks.