₹110 Crore Cyber Fraud Busted: 17 Arrested, International Links Unearthed

Post Views: 14

Massive Cyber Fraud Operation Dismantled in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh

A massive cyber fraud operation involving ₹110 crore has been dismantled in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the arrest of 17 individuals. The scam, which preyed on young people with promises of easy money, was uncovered following the suicide of a 17-year-old student in Andheri.

Investigation Reveals Extent of Scam

The investigation revealed that the gang used the PM Kisan scheme app to lure victims and siphon off large sums of money. A significant quantity of electronic devices, mobile phones, ATM cards, and SIM cards were seized from the accused. The operation, which began on December 8, initially led to the arrest of 15 individuals, with two more apprehended the following day.

According to authorities, the gang was remotely operated by handlers based in China and Dubai, which played a key role in expanding the scale of the fraud.

Scam Relied on Social Media and Fake Apps

The scam relied heavily on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, to execute the fraud. The accused used a fake Instagram ID to lure individuals by offering commissions in exchange for providing bank accounts, ATM cards, and SIM cards. Specially designed APK files were also circulated, falsely claiming to be linked to the PM Kisan scheme. These files allowed the scammers to gain direct access to users’ devices and banking data.

Links to 121 Bank Accounts Identified

Preliminary findings indicate links to 121 bank accounts, with 31 accounts already associated with 186 cases. The accused individuals have been identified, and authorities are expanding the probe to identify other members of the network and establish deeper international links.

Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh warned that cyber criminals rely heavily on social engineering and fake applications to gain the trust of users. He advised the public to avoid downloading APK files from unverified sources and to be cautious when sharing sensitive banking information online.

Investigation Ongoing

The investigation is ongoing, with detailed forensic analysis of seized mobile phones, SIM cards, and banking data underway to uncover the full extent of the operation. Action under the Gangster Act has been initiated against all the accused.