Lucknow Fake Call Centre Busted: 16 Arrested in US Cyber Fraud Case

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Lucknow Police have detained 16 individuals following the dismantling of an international call centre operation targeting U.S. residents through deceptive tactics involving malware warnings, unauthorized remote access, and fabricated Federal Trade Commission (FTC) threats.

How the Operation Was Uncovered

A police cybercrime unit and local authorities executed a dawn raid at Ridhya Palace, located near the Kapurthala police outpost in the Aliganj district, resulting in the arrest of 16 suspects, including four women. The operation was uncovered after a constable noticed irregular activity at the premises during an early morning patrol. The officer observed the premises being accessed at an unusual hour and initiated an investigation that led to a coordinated raid.

Methods Used by the Call Centre

The call centre allegedly operated in phases, beginning with pop-up notifications on U.S.-based devices claiming system infections or security breaches. Victims were directed to contact a toll-free number, where operators used remote-access tools to infiltrate devices and extract sensitive information. Subsequently, perpetrators impersonated U.S. government officials or FTC representatives to coerce payments under the guise of resolving fabricated legal issues.

Instilling Fear Through Fraudulent Tactics

The scheme involved the distribution of counterfeit arrest warrants and forged identification documents to instill fear. Victims were pressured to settle alleged “fines” using gift cards, digital vouchers, or cryptocurrency. Recovered evidence indicated that stolen voucher credentials were shared internally, with funds later transferred to associates in Gujarat for cash conversion.

Operational Structure and Financial Details

Operational details disclosed during interrogations revealed the call centre functioned during U.S. business hours, with shifts running from 8:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. local time. Employees reportedly handled 25–30 potential victims daily, receiving monthly compensation in cash ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹70,000. The investigation uncovered links between the arrested individuals and locations in West Bengal, Gujarat, and Lucknow.

Seized Assets and Ongoing Investigation

Seized assets included multiple computing devices, mobile phones, documentation, and personal identification records. Authorities are analyzing recovered materials to trace additional network members and assess the scale of the fraud. Police suspect the network’s central coordination occurs in Gujarat, with potential operatives in the United States.

Broader Implications and Future Actions

A separate call centre allegedly affiliated with the same network has been identified in another state, with shared victim data and operational strategies. Ongoing efforts focus on examining digital evidence, communication logs, and financial records to expand the investigation and apprehend further suspects. This operation marks the latest in a series of crackdowns on international cyber fraud hubs in Lucknow this year.