Police in Uttar Pradesh’s Kannauj have arrested 5 members of an interstate cyber fraud gang accused of cheating people by offering fake legal assistance and making false promises. The arrests followed an investigation into a complaint filed by a victim from Andhra Pradesh.
According to the police, the accused operated a network across multiple states and targeted victims using fake identities. They allegedly posed as lawyers or trusted individuals, promising to resolve legal matters, settle cases, or prevent legal complications. After gaining the victims’ confidence, they demanded money on various pretexts.
During the investigation, police found that one of the accused allegedly contacted Andhra Pradesh resident Ashok Reddy while pretending to be a lawyer. The accused assured him of help in a ₹50 lakh fraud case and allegedly collected nearly ₹1 lakh through different excuses.
After receiving the money, the accused reportedly stopped communicating with the victim and failed to provide any assistance. Realising he had been cheated, Ashok Reddy approached the police, leading to an investigation.
Using technical evidence, bank transaction records, and digital data, investigators identified and arrested the 5 accused. Police also discovered that the gang allegedly used bank accounts opened in the names of other individuals to carry out cybercrime-related transactions. The fraudulently obtained money was reportedly withdrawn through ATMs and other channels.
Police are now examining bank accounts, digital transactions, mobile numbers, and details of other associates connected to the network. Officials said further questioning of the accused may reveal their involvement in additional cyber fraud cases and help determine how many victims were targeted and where the stolen money was transferred.
According to the Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF), cybercriminals are increasingly using fake identities linked to legal services, investments, jobs, banking services, and government schemes to deceive people. The organization advises individuals to verify the identity and claims of unknown persons through official channels before making any payment.
Experts also recommend avoiding payments to anyone seeking money over phone calls or online platforms in the name of legal assistance, case settlements, or financial benefits. Any suspected cyber fraud or unauthorized transaction should be reported immediately to the 1930 cybercrime helpline or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to improve the chances of stopping transactions and recovering lost funds.
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