Couple in Gujarat defrauded out of 88 lakh rupees in a digital impersonation scam: Details uncovered
In a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world, a retired sessions court assistant clerk named Dinesh Delvadiya and his wife Anita have fallen prey to a "digital arrest" scam. The couple lost a staggering Rs 88.5 lakh over a period of 40 days.
The scam began with a WhatsApp call from someone claiming to be a telecom department officer. The caller directed Delvadiya to join a call with an officer named "Sunilkumar Gautam" from the Delhi Crime Branch. However, it was later revealed that the call was a ruse, part of a larger scheme to extort money.
The callers falsely accused Delvadiya of being linked to a narcotics and money-laundering racket. To avoid arrest, the couple complied with the demands of the criminals and transferred a total of Rs 88.5 lakh.
Three men named Brijesh Patel (36), Mohsin Sheikh (33), and Mohamad Halari (30) were arrested in connection with the scam. Brijesh Patel had rented out his bank account for Rs 10 lakh in the scam. Mohsin Sheikh and Mohamad Halari acted as intermediaries, channelling funds through "angadia" or informal hawala-style networks.
Police have warned the public against falling for "digital arrest" scams, where cybercriminals impersonate law enforcement to create fear and extort money. An investigation is underway to trace the larger syndicate responsible for the scam. The suspects in the case are suspected to be involved in similar frauds flagged on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP).
Himani Jha, a tech news writer at the platform, has been covering this story. With a five-year stint at leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech, Himani has a knack for deciphering complex tech news. When not writing about technology, Himani enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants.
As we navigate the digital age, it is crucial to stay vigilant and aware of such scams. Always verify the authenticity of calls and messages, especially those claiming to be from law enforcement or government agencies. If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal. Your safety and security should always be your priority.
