Srinagar, March 19: A significant international cyber fraud racket has been dismantled in Srinagar. The CIK-CID had received credible technical inputs indicating that certain secret call centers were involved in fraudulent online activities. These call centers targeted both foreign and local individuals, deceiving them in the process.
Upon receiving this information, the CIK promptly formed a specialized team comprising technical experts and field operatives. The team monitored various locations, gathered digital intelligence, and verified all findings. After extensive effort and investigation, they identified a primary operational hub in the Rangreth Industrial Area of Srinagar. Subsequently, the team conducted swift and coordinated raids across different parts of the city. During these operations, seven suspects were apprehended, and a large quantity of digital equipment was seized.
The confiscated items included 13 mobile phones, 9 laptops, VOIP systems, SIM cards, networking devices, and digital storage media. Many of these digital and communication tools clearly indicated the presence of a highly organized and technologically advanced criminal network.
Initial investigations revealed that the suspects were part of a large and well-coordinated cybercrime syndicate, with a network extending beyond Jammu and Kashmir. A segment of this network was specifically designed to target individuals in foreign countries, particularly in the USA, UK, and Canada. They employed international communication masking technology for their operations. Additionally, identity theft, psychological manipulation, and modern digital and cryptocurrency channels were used for financial fraud.
The accused had established a covert, unregistered call center infrastructure based on a VOIP system. This allowed them to create international virtual numbers, employing server routing and spoofing techniques to conceal their actual location. They deceived unsuspecting victims by presenting themselves as legitimate service providers. Fake Yahoo Mail websites and Google ads were utilized to attract individuals to this call center.
Victims were contacted through online phishing and call operations in multiple countries. Once a victim clicked on an advertisement, a toll-free number appeared on their screen, operated by the suspects, misleading them into providing their banking and personal information. Subsequently, funds were transferred to various accounts, including mule accounts and cryptocurrency wallets. To obscure the original source, these funds were frequently rotated, exchanged, and transferred.
Victims were assured that their bank or device had been compromised and that they needed to pay for technical assistance. The fraudulently obtained money was then laundered through digital wallets, banking channels, and cryptocurrencies. Often, these funds were converted into USDT and other cryptocurrencies, making tracking difficult. Notably, the entire operation did not involve cash transactions, rendering it a fully digital and modern cyber fraud scheme. The total transactions conducted so far are estimated to be in the crores of rupees.
An FIR is being registered under the law, including relevant sections for fraud, criminal conspiracy, and the Information Technology Act. Furthermore, additional raids are being conducted to apprehend more suspects. Forensic analysis of the seized devices is underway. Efforts are ongoing to identify victims and trace financial transactions. The investigation into the entire network is being conducted at both national and international levels.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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