In a disturbing incident of cybercrime, a woman professor from a reputed educational institute in Navi Mumbai lost Rs 1.81 crore after falling prey to a well-orchestrated scam by con artists posing as Income Tax officials. The fraudsters used fake government documents, psychological pressure tactics and the threat of a so-called "digital arrest" to swindle her life savings.
The Fraud Unfolds: Threats of Tax Evasion and Digital Detention
According to the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch, the professor was first contacted by a caller claiming to be an officer from the Income Tax Department. The caller alleged that she was involved in a tax evasion case involving unpaid dues of Rs 8.62 lakh and that a legal complaint had been filed against her in Delhi.
The scam escalated as the fraudsters sent forged documents via WhatsApp, allegedly from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and even the Supreme Court of India, claiming her involvement in a fabricated "Amit Chaudhary case."
Victim Trapped With Fake Documents and Psychological Pressure
To intensify the pressure, the criminals informed the professor that she was under a "digital arrest," claiming that her financial activities were now under surveillance. Under the false pretense of clearing her name, they convinced her to disclose complete details of her bank accounts, mutual fund holdings, and stock market investments.
Within days, the professor transferred Rs 1.81 crore to six different bank accounts controlled by the scamsters, believing the funds were needed for verification and would be returned.
Timely Police Action: Three Arrested by Navi Mumbai Crime Branch
Realizing the fraud too late, the victim approached the Navi Mumbai police. The Crime Branch, led by ACP Ajaykumar Landge, swiftly traced and arrested three suspects believed to be part of a larger cyber fraud syndicate. Investigations reveal that the accused were systematically targeting individuals by impersonating government officials and threatening legal action to extort money.
Police Advisory: No Authority Will Ever Order a "Digital Arrest"
The Navi Mumbai Police have issued a public advisory cautioning citizens about such scams.
"There is no such thing as a digital arrest. Government authorities do not conduct arrests or financial investigations over phone calls or WhatsApp messages," said a senior police official. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, verify identities, and report suspicious calls immediately to the cybercrime helpline or local police.
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