Fraudsters swindle nursing officer out of Rupees 7 lakh through platform-based deception: Details revealed
In a chilling incident, a 51-year-old nursing officer from Mumbai fell victim to a digital arrest scam on July 18, 2022, losing a substantial amount of Rs 7 lakh.
The scam began when the victim received a WhatsApp video call from individuals pretending to be officers from the Mumbai Crime Branch. They showed her a photo of a businessman involved in money laundering, claiming that her Aadhaar card was being used for illegal activities.
To add to the fear, the scammers convinced the victim that she was under 24-hour 'voice' surveillance and warned her not to contact anyone. They sent forged documents, including a fake CBI warrant, a Supreme Court order, an FIR, and Enforcement Directorate notices, to reinforce their false claims.
The scammers even provided a Mumbai Crime Branch contact number, which they claimed was the officer handling the 'call'. The victim, in her panic, was instructed to lodge a police complaint, or her Aadhaar card could be blacklisted.
It's crucial to note that no government agency will ever demand money over the phone. Citizens are advised never to share personal or banking details with unknown callers. The identity of anyone claiming to represent law enforcement should be verified.
Authorities have urged people to remain cautious and report such incidents promptly. The Mumbai police department that allegedly handled the 'call' from the victim is not specified in the available search results.
Himani Jha, a tech news writer at our platform, has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. She emphasises the importance of being vigilant and informed in the digital age.
As these types of scams become increasingly common, it's essential to remember that quick reporting can improve the chances of tracking and recovering stolen funds. The police urge everyone to stay alert and protect their 'phone' information.
In the wake of this incident, authorities reiterate their call for citizens to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities immediately. Stay safe, and let's work together to combat digital fraud.
