A prolonged campaign of fear and false accusations has allegedly cost a woman from Kothrud, Pune, ₹68 lakh. Police said the fraud continued from March to early October 2026, with criminals posing as government and law enforcement officials to intimidate the victim.
According to police, the fraudsters accused the woman of involvement in online pornography and money laundering. They falsely claimed that the Data Protection Board of India was investigating her.
A second impersonator, posing as a Mumbai Crime Branch officer, allegedly contacted her through video calls. The caller threatened to arrest her over alleged links to terror financing, using fabricated legal claims to create fear.
The woman reportedly transferred money to 6 bank accounts through 9 UPI applications. Police registered a case after reviewing her complaint.
The reported period refers to the overall duration of the alleged fraud. It does not establish that the victim was under continuous video surveillance throughout those months.
The incident highlights how cybercriminals can use prolonged psychological pressure, fear and isolation to manipulate victims. By creating the impression of an official investigation and threatening legal action, fraudsters may push people into making repeated financial transfers.
Preventing such scams requires early identification of potential victims, greater family awareness and monitoring of unusual financial behaviour. Timely intervention by banks, along with psychological support for victims, can also play an important role in limiting harm and helping those affected.
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