In the digital age, while technology is making people’s lives easier, cases of its misuse are also increasing rapidly. Recently, a shocking case came to light in Bengaluru, in which fraudsters duped a software engineer of Rs 11.8 crore by threatening him with digital arrest.
How did the fraud happen?
The victim, a 39-year-old software engineer, said he was called by fraudsters posing as police officers.
- Money laundering allegations:
- The fraudsters claimed that their Aadhaar cards were being used for money laundering.
- It was also said that a case was registered against him at Colaba Cyber Police Station in Mumbai.
- Fear of Supreme Court:
- The fraudsters told the victim that the matter has now reached the Supreme Court.
- They threatened that if the victim did not cooperate, he and his family would be arrested.
Methods adopted for fraud
Fraudsters adopted very well-planned methods to commit fraud.
- Using Skype calls:
- The fraudsters made the victim download the Skype app.
- On video call, a person dressed in Mumbai Police uniform and introduced himself as an officer.
- Fake RBI Guidelines:
- Fraudsters gave fake guidelines in the name of Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
- In the name of verification, the victim was forced to transfer money to multiple bank accounts.
- Citing past events:
- The fraudsters told the victim that a businessman had opened a bank account using his Aadhaar card for fraudulent transactions worth Rs 6 crore.
Fraud of Rs 11.8 crore: A big shock
Between November 25 and December 12, the fraudsters got the victim to transfer money several times.
- In total, the victim transferred Rs 11.8 crore to various accounts.
- When the fraudsters started asking for more money, the victim realized that he had become a victim of fraud.
- After this, she lodged a complaint with the police.
Digital arrest: a new fraud
Cheating in the name of digital arrest has become a new and dangerous method.
- Threatening the victim:
- Fraudsters scare people by showing fear of institutions like court, police and Supreme Court.
- Use of personal information:
- Fraudsters obtain the victim’s personal information in advance, which makes them appear more trustworthy.
- Blackmailing:
- The victim is forced to pay money citing fake allegations.
How to avoid this kind of fraud?
- Do not take suspicious calls seriously:
- No government official claims to ask for money over the phone.
- Do not share personal information:
- Do not share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank details etc. with any unknown person.
- Contact officials directly:
- If there is a fear of any legal issue, contact the concerned institution directly.
- Don’t download suspicious apps:
- Before downloading Skype or any other app, check its authenticity.
- Notify the police:
- If you suspect fraud, immediately inform the local police
