₹80 Crore Cyber Fraud Network Busted, Six Arrested in Major Crackdown

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A nationwide cybercrime ring responsible for scams totaling ₹80 crore has been dismantled, resulting in the arrest of six individuals.

Nationwide Cybercrime Ring Dismantled

The joint operation, conducted by Fugana police and the cybercrime unit, targeted a gang that had been using fake websites, phishing, and online scams to defraud victims across multiple states.

Investigation and Arrests

The investigation began after a complaint was filed on the Union Home Ministry’s ‘Pratibimb’ portal by a Maharashtra resident who had been cheated through a fake online portal. Technical analysis of the bank accounts and mobile numbers used in the fraud led authorities to the Muzaffarnagar region, where coordinated raids and arrests were carried out.

According to officials, the local module’s role in the scam was limited to providing bank accounts, SIM cards, and identity documents to handlers operating from abroad. These “mule accounts” and numbers were used to carry out the actual scam operations, which were run through call centers and digital platforms by the overseas handlers. The accused were paid a fixed commission for each account and SIM they supplied.

Scope of the Scam

The investigation has revealed that over 100 cybercrime complaints have been linked to this scam. During interrogation, police obtained details of several additional bank accounts and mobile numbers linked to the racket, which are now being frozen. Authorities are also examining how many individuals’ identity documents were misused to open accounts.

Ongoing Investigation and Warning to Citizens

The probe is ongoing, with a focus on financial transactions, digital footprints, and interstate links of the network. Further arrests are likely once the two absconding accused are apprehended. The crackdown is believed to have dealt a significant blow to a major cyber fraud ecosystem.

Citizens are being warned not to rent out or share their bank accounts, SIM cards, or identity documents for commission, as these accounts are often used in cybercrime and can lead to legal action against the account holder.