Bengaluru techie loses ₹3.2 lakh to arrest warrant scam
- Victim received a call from fraudsters posing as police officers
- They claimed an arrest warrant was issued against him for alleged money laundering
- Victim transferred ₹3.2 lakh to a 'verification account' before realising the fraud
Fraudsters pose as police, threaten arrest
A private firm employee in Bengaluru has lost ₹3.2 lakh in a cyber fraud where fraudsters posed as police officers and claimed an arrest warrant had been issued against him. The incident, which took place on Tuesday, has been reported to the cyber crime police.
According to the complaint, the victim received a call from an unknown number. The caller identified himself as a police officer and told the victim that a warrant had been issued for his arrest in connection with a money laundering case. The caller also claimed that the victim's Aadhaar card was linked to illegal transactions.
The threat escalates
The fraudsters then transferred the call to another person who posed as a senior police official. This person repeated the threat and demanded that the victim pay a 'verification fee' to avoid arrest. Scared and confused, the victim complied and transferred the amount to a bank account provided by the fraudsters.
After transferring the money, the victim realised he had been duped when the fraudsters demanded more money. He then approached the cyber crime police and filed a complaint.
Police investigating, warn of similar scams
Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. They have initiated a probe and are trying to trace the bank accounts where the money was transferred.
Officials have not yet confirmed the identity of the fraudsters or the location from where the calls were made. Such scams have become increasingly common across the country, with fraudsters impersonating law enforcement agencies to extort money.
How to stay safe
- Police or government officials never ask for money over the phone.
- Do not share personal details or OTPs with unknown callers.
- If you receive such a call, disconnect and report it to the cyber crime helpline at 1930.
The cyber crime police have urged citizens to be cautious and verify any such claims before acting. They have also advised people to immediately report any suspicious communication.
What to watch
Investigations are underway, and police are expected to issue a detailed advisory in the coming days. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and spread awareness about such fraudulent tactics.