Retired Doctor Scammed ₹98 Lakh by Fake CBI Officers in Coimbatore

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A 67-year-old retired government doctor in Coimbatore lost ₹98 lakh to fraudsters posing as CBI officials through a digital arrest scam.

Incident Overview

A 67-year-old retired government doctor in Coimbatore fell victim to an online deception scheme involving digital arrest tactics, losing ₹98 lakh to individuals posing as Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officials. The fraudsters allegedly initiated contact via phone or video call, informing the victim of suspicious financial activity linked to her bank account. They then pressured her to transfer funds to multiple accounts under the guise of investigative procedures, exploiting fear of legal repercussions.

Scam Details

Method of Deception

According to law enforcement reports, the perpetrators claimed to be conducting an official investigation into the victim’s financial transactions, asserting that her account was under scrutiny for potential involvement in financial crimes. They allegedly threatened her with digital surveillance and legal consequences if she failed to comply with their instructions.

False Assurance

The scammers emphasized that the money would be returned after verification, a false assurance that led the victim to execute multiple transfers. Following the transactions, the fraudsters ceased communication, leaving the victim to realize she had been targeted.

Law Enforcement Response

Police investigations are now focused on tracing the flow of funds through the bank accounts involved, as well as analyzing digital evidence such as communication records and mobile numbers. Authorities are also examining whether the same group may have targeted other individuals using similar methods.

Cybercrime Expert Insights

Cybercrime experts highlighted that such schemes typically involve impersonation of law enforcement agencies to instill fear and manipulate victims into transferring money. A former IPS officer and cybersecurity analyst noted that genuine investigative bodies do not conduct digital arrests via phone or video calls, nor do they request funds to be sent to private accounts for verification.

Statistics and Public Advice

Coimbatore Cyber Crime police reported that over 6,500 cases of online fraud have been documented this year, with cumulative financial losses exceeding ₹48 crore. Officials advise the public to remain vigilant against unsolicited communications and to immediately report suspicious activities to their banks and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Victims are urged to avoid transferring funds under pressure and to seek assistance through official channels.

“Genuine investigative bodies do not conduct digital arrests via phone or video calls, nor do they request funds to be sent to private accounts for verification.”

Conclusion

The scam underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of unsolicited communications, especially those involving legal or financial threats. Public awareness and adherence to official protocols remain critical in preventing such frauds.