In a concerning trend, an increasing number of Kolkatans are falling victim to sophisticated scams orchestrated by fraudsters posing as law enforcement officials. The scam involves duping individuals into believing that a consignment of illegal articles has been booked in their names, leading them to face interrogation by supposed cops from another state via video calls at hotels.
Reports from police sources indicate that victims receive calls informing them of the purported consignment and urging them to leave their homes or offices immediately to undergo interrogation. The fraudsters employ persuasive tactics, insisting that compliance is necessary to avoid legal repercussions.
One such incident occurred recently when a resident of Chetla received such a call and hastily left his workplace to participate in a supposed police interrogation conducted via Skype.
Fortunately, the intervention of a vigilant friend prevented him from being swindled. The friend recognized the potential fraud and advised him to disconnect the call, averting any financial loss.
During these deceptive interrogations, victims are instructed not to communicate with anyone else, including family members, further isolating them from potential assistance. The fraudsters exploit the victims' fear and vulnerability, making them susceptible to coercion.
The scam has evolved from previous tactics where fraudsters posed as representatives of courier companies to extort money from victims. Now, they employ a more elaborate ruse, convincing individuals to relocate to hotels for virtual interrogations under the guise of law enforcement procedures.
The fraudsters utilize personal information such as PAN and Aadhaar card numbers to lend credibility to their claims, instilling a sense of urgency and fear in their targets.
Victims, believing their identity documents have been implicated in illegal activities, are manipulated into complying with the fraudsters' demands.
The consequences of falling victim to such scams can be severe, not only resulting in financial loss but also potentially damaging the victim's reputation and inviting legal trouble.
It is essential for individuals to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited calls or demands, especially those involving sensitive personal information or coercive instructions.
Law enforcement authorities have cautioned the public against divulging personal information or complying with suspicious requests from unknown callers. They advise individuals to verify the authenticity of such communications by contacting official channels or seeking assistance from trusted sources.
In light of these incidents, it is crucial for residents to exercise caution and awareness when dealing with unfamiliar or unexpected requests, particularly those involving legal matters. By staying informed and vigilant, individuals can protect themselves from falling prey to elaborate scams and fraudulent schemes.
The recent surge in such scams underscores the importance of community awareness and proactive measures to combat cybercrime and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
