Srinagar: An elderly couple from Srinagar has lost an amount of Rs 48.00 lacs to cyber fraudsters. The couple has been approached by the fraudsters through WhatsApp video call informing them that the callers belong to CBI and are investigating the couple for their alleged involvement in a big financial fraud. The fraudsters also projected themselves as officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The callers falsely accused them of being involved in a financial fraud case that was allegedly being investigated by the CBI. The scammers sent them fake orders of CBI and TRAI. They threatened to freeze their bank accounts and seize their property.
The fraudsters forced the couple to continuously stay under video surveillance for few days, even while using the washroom. They were forbidden from leaving their house without permission. Living under immense psychological pressure, the couple ended up transferring Rs 48 lakh.
Cyber Crime Investigation Centre for Excellence, Crime Branch ,J&K is repeatedly advising people that there is nothing like Digital arrest and any person facing such a situation should immediately recognize them as fraudsters and, instead of falling prey to their ill designs, they should immediately report it on helpline number 1930 or on www.cybercrime.gov.in. It has been observed that the fraudsters usually target senior citizens whose children do not reside with them owing to outside jobs or businesses. People are again advised to remain careful to stay safe and don’t fall prey to these fraudsters.
