New Delhi, March 28: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a significant operation against a large-scale SIM box-based cyber fraud. The agency conducted raids at six locations and arrested two suspects, Mohammad Bilal and Mohammad Dilshad. This case involves extensive cyber fraud linked to the misuse of bulk-acquired SIM cards through SIM box technology.
During the investigation, it was revealed that a company was formed in January 2025, under whose name 108 SIM cards were obtained. These SIM cards were allegedly presented for use by the company’s employees but were later found to be involved in fraudulent activities. Citizens reported these numbers to the National Cyber Reporting Portal (NCRP) and the Chaksu portal, prompting the investigation.
Complaints disclosed that the accused used these SIM cards to impersonate law enforcement agencies and government officials, scamming individuals over the phone. Victims were coerced or lured into transferring money, a common tactic in cyber fraud. A significant number of people were targeted through such calls.
Based on technical analysis and field operations, the CBI arrested both main suspects in Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh. Raids were conducted at six locations in Meerut and Noida, including the residences of the company’s directors, premises linked to SIM box infrastructure associates, a regional office of a telecom service provider, and the residence of an employee connected to the bulk SIM issuance process.
During the raids, the investigation agency seized several crucial pieces of evidence, including laptops, hard disks, mobile phones, objectionable documents, and a large number of SIM cards. Among the seized SIM cards was one from Nepal, indicating the possibility of international connections.
Preliminary investigations also revealed that the arrested suspects are directors of the company established solely for acquiring bulk SIM cards and executing cyber fraud through SIM box operations. The CBI is now investigating other individuals connected to this network and potential interstate or international links.
Meanwhile, the CBI has made it clear that strict legal action will continue against those promoting cybercrime through the misuse of telecom infrastructure. The agency has advised citizens to remain vigilant, stating that there is no legal concept of ‘digital arrest.’ People are urged not to trust any calls requesting money in the name of law enforcement agencies or presenting suspicious investment schemes, and to report such incidents to the relevant authorities immediately.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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