Software engineer becomes victim in Bengaluru

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

1. Threatening the victim:
   • Fraudsters scare people by showing fear of institutions like court, police and Supreme Court.
2. Use of personal information:
   • Fraudsters obtain the victim’s personal information in advance, which makes them appear more trustworthy.
3. Blackmailing:
   • The victim is forced to pay money citing fake allegations.

How to avoid this kind of fraud?

1. Do not take suspicious calls seriously:
   • No government official claims to ask for money over the phone.
2. Do not share personal information:
   • Do not share your Aadhaar, PAN, bank details etc. with any unknown person.
3. Contact officials directly:
   • If there is a fear of any legal issue, contact the concerned institution directly.
4. Don’t download suspicious apps:
   • Before downloading Skype or any other app, check its authenticity.
5. Notify the police:
   • If you suspect fraud, immediately inform the local police