Retired Bank Manager Loses ₹1.29 Crore to Sophisticated Cyber Scam

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Noida Retiree Loses ₹1.29 Crore to Sophisticated Cyber Scam

A retired bank manager in Noida fell victim to a sophisticated cyber scam, losing ₹1.29 crore to fraudsters who posed as officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Supreme Court of India.

The Scam Unfolds

The scam began on February 6, 2026, when the 72-year-old victim received a phone call from a person claiming to be a TRAI official. The caller alleged that a SIM card issued in the victim’s name was being used for illicit activities, creating a sense of panic.

Shortly after, the victim received a video call displaying a mock courtroom setting, where the scammers claimed he had been placed under “digital arrest.”

The scammers, posing as law enforcement and investigation officials, threatened the victim with immediate arrest if he failed to cooperate.

They kept him on continuous video calls for nearly two days, instructing him not to leave his house and to remain connected at all times. During this period, the victim was repeatedly told that his bank accounts were under investigation and that funds needed to be transferred for verification purposes.

The Victim Falls Prey

Under intense psychological pressure, the victim transferred money in multiple installments, totaling ₹1,29,61,962. The scammers sent forged letters in the name of the Supreme Court of India and Mumbai Police, claiming that the investigation had been completed and that a “No Dues Certificate” had been issued.

The victim was assured that his money would be refunded soon. However, when no refund was made, the victim realized he had been cheated and filed a complaint on the national cyber crime portal.

Investigation and Awareness

The police are currently investigating the case, which appears to involve an organized cybercrime network that uses both technological tools and psychological manipulation to trap victims.

The concept of “digital arrest” is a fabricated one, created by scammers to deceive victims into believing they are under legal custody. In reality, no law in India allows for such an online arrest.

Experts advise individuals to never share personal or banking details over unknown calls and to verify the identity of government officials through official channels.

This incident highlights the importance of awareness and caution in preventing cybercrime. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and only by staying informed and vigilant can individuals protect themselves from losing their hard-earned money.