Gurugram Police has reported a significant rise in cyber fraud cases, with 16,788 complaints registered in 2023, leading to an estimated monetary loss of Rs 125 crore, according to Cyber Police Gurugram.
Arrests and Investigations:
- 21 Arrests: Gurugram Police has arrested 21 individuals involved in cyber fraud-related crimes.
- Delhi Police Action: On December 19, Delhi Police apprehended Ayan Das, a 21-year-old cyber fraudster from Kolkata, recovering:
- Five mobile phones
- One laptop
- Five chequebooks
- 20 debit cards
- One passbook
- Three proprietorship stamps
Case Details:
Victim: Srinivasan
- Incident: Srinivasan fell victim to a cyber scam involving a fraudulent WhatsApp group, “MFSL Stock Chat 40.”
- Scam Setup:
- The group offered stock recommendations and later invited members to invest in the Marwadi Security Quota VIP fast trading account.
- Srinivasan transferred Rs 23 lakh across four transactions to invest in the IPO of “Kronox Lab Sciences.”
- His account falsely displayed a portfolio value of Rs 39 lakh.
- Fraud Discovery:
- Srinivasan attempted to withdraw Rs 20 lakh but was denied repeatedly, with demands for additional deposits.
- Realizing the scam, he reported it to the Cyber Police Station, South West Delhi.
Investigation and Arrest:
- Operation Details:
- Police traced the fraud to Ayan Das, a Kolkata resident.
- Das allegedly provided bank accounts to fraudsters on a commission basis and facilitated illicit financial transactions.
- Outcome: Das was arrested, and his digital assets and banking tools were seized.
Implications:
The case highlights the growing sophistication of cyber fraud operations, leveraging social engineering tactics and fake platforms to deceive victims. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and verify financial transactions thoroughly.
Public Advisory:
- Avoid responding to unsolicited investment offers on social media or WhatsApp groups.
- Report suspicious activities immediately to cybercrime units.