Fake Mobile App Scam: Two Accused in ₹2.117 Million Cyber Fraud Case
Uttar Pradesh police have arrested two individuals following the discovery of illicit funds linked to a fraudulent mobile application, traced to a suspected mule account in Azamgarh.
Arrest and Case Details
The case involves a financial loss of ₹2.117 million, according to official records. A complaint was filed through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) by Sanjay Mehrotra, a resident of Sarojini Nagar in Lucknow, detailing unauthorized transactions amounting to ₹2.117 million via a deceptive mobile application.
Investigators from the Cyber Cell initiated a comprehensive probe, examining banking records, digital footprints, and technical evidence. During the investigation, it was revealed that ₹90,000 from the stolen funds was transferred on November 28, 2025, to a bank account linked to Mohammad Zaid, a resident of Asifganj in Azamgarh.
Investigation Findings
Subsequent analysis showed the entire sum was withdrawn through nine separate ATM transactions in Lucknow on the same day. Zaid reportedly admitted to investigators that he encountered a Lucknow-based individual named Taha while playing the online game PUBG.
Taha allegedly persuaded Zaid to provide access to his bank passbook, ATM card, and other financial instruments, claiming it would generate quick earnings. Zaid reportedly received ₹5,000 as compensation for facilitating the use of his account.
Further scrutiny indicated that the same account had been implicated in a prior cyber fraud case, suggesting its role as a mule account. Authorities suspect the account was used to launder funds from multiple cybercrime operations before cash withdrawals occurred.
Ongoing Investigation
Kotwali Police have launched a broader investigation to trace the remaining stolen funds and identify additional individuals involved in the network. The probe includes reviewing bank statements, ATM surveillance footage, call detail records, digital devices, and financial transaction logs.
Cybersecurity Expert Insights
Cybersecurity experts highlight that fraudsters often target vulnerable individuals, such as those seeking rapid income, by exploiting their bank accounts and ATM cards as intermediaries. They emphasize that sharing banking details, passbooks, or internet banking credentials can lead to legal consequences.
Additionally, individuals who knowingly assist in moving illicit funds may face criminal liability. The case underscores the growing threat of mobile application-based fraud and the need for heightened vigilance in protecting financial information.
Conclusion
Authorities continue to pursue leads to dismantle the network and recover unaccounted proceeds.
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