A shocking cyber fraud case from Bengaluru has highlighted the growing threat of “digital arrest” scams in India. A 74-year-old retired teacher allegedly lost Rs 24 crore after fraudsters posing as government officials kept her under fear and psychological pressure for nearly 4 months.
Bengaluru retired teacher loses Rs 24 crore in ‘digital arrest’ cyber fraud case
The State Cyber Command Unit arrested 6 accused from different states in connection with the case. The accused allegedly posed as senior officials from the Central Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement Directorate and falsely claimed that the victim was involved in a money laundering case.
The victim, Lakshmi Ramamurthy, lives alone in Shivajinagar while her children stay abroad. She had previously worked as a teacher in Dubai. According to investigators, the accused kept her under constant fear and surveillance, convincing her that she could face legal consequences if she did not cooperate.
Fearing arrest, Lakshmi reportedly transferred Rs 24 crore in multiple phases between February 10 and March 24. Police said the fraudsters continued demanding more money even after receiving the large amount.
The scam came to light after a private bank manager noticed suspicious activity and alerted the police. Lakshmi had reportedly visited the bank to pledge 1.3 kg of gold ornaments to arrange more money for the fraudsters.
Police officials reached the bank and questioned her. Initially, she was too frightened to speak openly, but later revealed details of the so-called “digital arrest” after reassurance from the officers.
Investigators found that the victim had transferred money 26 times into 23 mule bank accounts connected to 10 banks across the country. Police also said the accused targeted her after learning that she had recently sold a plot and received a large amount of money.
Using money trail analysis and technical evidence, police arrested the accused from Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, New Delhi, and Bihar. Authorities also managed to freeze more than Rs 4 crore from several mule accounts and recovered Rs 1.46 crore from the accused.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.