Cybercrime Syndicate Dismantled in India

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Cybercrime Syndicate Dismantled: Malware, Fake Investments, and Social Media Scams Exposed

A complex cybercrime network operating across India has been disrupted by the Mumbai cyber police, resulting in the arrest of a 23-year-old man from Surat. The investigation revealed a multifaceted operation involving malware distribution, fake investment schemes, and social media scams.

Accused Identified and Arrested

According to police officials, the accused, Narayan Shankar Mali, was identified through a combination of bank KYC records, digital forensics, and technical analysis. Mali, a resident of Surat, was found to be managing his brother-in-law’s ice cream shop as a front while secretly assisting cyber fraudsters.

Malware Distribution and Financial Coordination

The investigation suggests that Mali played a key role in the network, acting as a financial coordinator and digital distributor. He allegedly facilitated the transfer of defrauded funds through multiple bank accounts and circulated malicious application links used in various scams.

E-Challan Malware Racket

Further investigation revealed that Mali was involved in an e-challan malware racket, where fake APK files were sent to thousands of mobile numbers across India. The malware was designed to compromise bank accounts, and Mali earned commissions for each successful installation. He worked in coordination with four associates based in Rajasthan’s Bhilwara district to operate this module.

Fake Investment and Share Trading Schemes

In addition to the malware operation, the network was found to be 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.

Social Media Scam

A social media scam, dubbed “like-and-review,” was also uncovered, where individuals were initially offered small payments for liking or reviewing online content. However, they were later persuaded to deposit larger sums under various pretexts, ultimately resulting in financial loss.

Investigation and Arrest

The 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, although the total amount siphoned off is still being assessed.

“The accused remains in police custody as further questioning continues. The case highlights the growing sophistication of cybercrime networks that use legitimate-looking businesses as fronts while running coordinated digital fraud operations nationwide.”

Warning to Citizens

Citizens are advised to exercise caution when interacting with online investment schemes and social media promotions, and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.