Imagine receiving a call from someone claiming to be an official from a trusted organization, warning you of serious legal trouble. Feeling threatened, you may panic and do whatever it takes to clear your name. Unfortunately, this is the exact trap that a retired officer from Ranchi, Jharkhand, fell into, losing Rs 2.27 crore in just 11 days.
The retired officer, who had worked for Coal India, was targeted by cybercriminals posing as officials from various government agencies. The scam began on December 10, 2024, when he received a call from someone identifying himself as Abhiraj Shukla, an officer from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The caller accused him of spreading misleading advertisements and using his mobile number for fraudulent activities. Despite the officer’s denial, the caller claimed his personal documents had been misused and threatened him with arrest for money laundering.
How the Scam Unfolded
Following the initial call, the victim was contacted by another individual, a woman named Poonam Gupta, who introduced herself as an officer from the Delhi Cybercrime branch. She instructed him to use his mobile camera for identification and assured him that cooperation would clear his name. Over the next 11 days, the officer was forced into staying on video calls with multiple people, including someone pretending to be a senior IPS officer.
Consequences of the Scam
The criminals manipulated him into transferring his life savings—Rs 2.27 crore—across eight different bank accounts. The funds came from both his and his wife’s accounts, accumulated over the years. After the transfers, the scammers cut off all communication, blocking the officer’s number. Realising he had been scammed, the victim immediately reported the crime.
How to Protect Yourself from Such Scams
To avoid falling into similar traps, always verify the identity of callers claiming to be from official organizations. Never share personal information or transfer funds without thorough validation. Additionally, stay informed about the latest scams through platforms like Looffers.com, which provide valuable resources to help you stay vigilant against cyber threats.
Remember, your safety is paramount—stay cautious and informed!
