Aligarh Police Cracks Down on UPI Scamsters Using Stolen Mobile Phones

Post Views: 14

UPI Fraud Ring Using Stolen Mobile Phones Dismantled in Aligarh

A coordinated effort by law enforcement has led to the disruption of a gang responsible for stealing mobile phones and utilizing the linked SIM cards to create new UPI IDs, resulting in the unauthorized withdrawal of funds from bank accounts.

Investigation and Arrests

The investigation, which began with a complaint filed in the Quarsi area, revealed that a stolen mobile phone had been used to fraudulently create a UPI account and withdraw ₹5,67,497 on August 20, 2025. Through technical analysis and data sharing, investigators were able to identify the suspects.

Three individuals, including two adults and a juvenile, were apprehended in connection with the scheme. The adults, identified as Sasaram Nonia from Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal, and Mohammad Shamsul from Sahibganj, Jharkhand, have been remanded to jail, while the juvenile has been placed in a reform home in Agra.

Modus Operandi

During interrogation, police discovered that the gang specialized in stealing mobile phones, specifically targeting devices with SIM cards linked to bank accounts. The accused confessed to stealing a phone at Aligarh railway station several months prior and using the same method to withdraw a substantial amount of money.

The gang’s modus operandi involved stealing phones in crowded areas, identifying SIM cards linked to bank accounts, and exploiting device-based authentication to transfer funds.

Advisory to the Public

The Cyber Crime Police have issued an advisory to the public, urging citizens to exercise caution when using their mobile phones. The advisory recommends that individuals never hand over their phones to strangers, immediately block their SIM and bank accounts if their phone is lost or stolen, disable UPI and banking apps, and use strong screen locks and SIM locks.

Prevention and Awareness

Law enforcement officials emphasize that prompt reporting and awareness are crucial in preventing such crimes, particularly as digital payments become increasingly prevalent.