The scam began when the victim received a call from someone posing as an official from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The caller falsely claimed that a SIM card linked to the victim’s Aadhaar number was being used for illegal activities, including harassment and fraudulent advertisements. Soon after, another individual alleged that the victim’s Aadhaar had been misused to open a bank account involved in money laundering.
To add credibility to their claims, the fraudsters insisted the victim participate in a “virtual investigation” via Skype. Over several calls, they impersonated senior police officers and pressured him to transfer funds for so-called “verification purposes.” They further threatened legal action and arrest of the victim’s family if he failed to comply.
Under these threats, the victim made multiple payments, starting with ₹75 lakh and eventually transferring a total of ₹11.8 crore to different accounts.
It was only after weeks of continuous coercion that he realized he had been deceived.
Police have registered the case under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including provisions related to cheating and impersonation. Investigators are now working to trace the accounts used by the fraudsters and identify those behind the scam.
This case stands out not only because of the amount involved but also for its elaborate execution.
Cybercrime in Karnataka has been on the rise, with losses amounting to ₹2,047 crore as of November 2024, according to government data. Bengaluru alone accounted for ₹1,806 crore of these losses, reflecting the city’s vulnerability as an IT hub.
Experts warn that cybercriminals are employing increasingly sophisticated methods to exploit unsuspecting victims. They often leverage fear, urgency, and advanced digital tools to create a false sense of legitimacy.
Public awareness campaigns and stronger cybersecurity measures are critical to addressing this growing menace.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious, especially when receiving unsolicited calls or emails. Sharing sensitive information such as Aadhaar details or transferring funds without verification can lead to devastating consequences. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in an increasingly digital world.
