Nagaland Woman Arrested in Gurugram for China-Linked Cyber Fraud Scheme Exposed
Nagaland Resident Arrested for Aiding China-Linked Cybercrime Ring
A Nagaland resident has been apprehended in Gurugram for allegedly aiding a China-linked cybercrime ring. The woman, identified as 30-year-old Kung Panmae, was arrested during a joint operation between the Gurugram Police and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
Virtual SIM Box Setup
According to investigators, Panmae had set up a virtual SIM box in a rented flat, which was used to convert international Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls into Indian local numbers. This setup enabled the fraudsters to evade detection by making it difficult for authorities to trace the origin of the calls.
During the raid, police seized seven mobile phones, three SIM cards, a WiFi modem, and a faulty laptop. Three of the phones were found to be in auto-dial mode, sequentially calling different Indian numbers. The device screens displayed a “VDMS Apk App,” indicating automated call operations.
Panmae reportedly told police that she and her husband had set up the system on behalf of China-based cybercrime operatives. Her role was to keep the phones continuously charged and connected to the internet, while her husband received a commission for facilitating the setup.
Transnational Cybercrime Operation
The virtual SIM box was allegedly used to place calls to Indian citizens for various cyber offences, including digital arrest scams, gaming fraud, and investment fraud. The setup was part of a larger transnational cybercrime operation, according to officials.
Panmae’s arrest was made possible by specific intelligence received on February 10 about an illegal parallel telephone exchange operating from a rented accommodation in Sector 28. A cyber police team conducted a raid in coordination with I4C and apprehended Panmae on the spot. Efforts are underway to trace her absconding husband and other members of the network.
Investigation and Precautions
The seized devices have been sent for forensic examination to analyze call data, IP logs, and financial trails. This will help establish international links and identify local collaborators.
Citizens are advised to exercise caution when receiving calls from unknown numbers, particularly those claiming digital arrest, investment opportunities, or urgent financial threats. Such calls should be reported immediately to the cyber helpline.
Virtual SIM Box Modules
The use of virtual SIM box modules is a common tactic employed by transnational cybercrime groups. These modules can be used to facilitate a range of cyber offences, making it challenging for authorities to track the origin of the calls.
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