New Delhi: What began as a routine phone call soon turned into a nightmare for an elderly couple in Greater Kailash, who were allegedly duped of ₹14.85 crore in a chilling case of cyber fraud. Investigators say the scam was executed with precision, combining fear tactics, technology, and a well-organised financial network.
According to the chargesheet, which runs over 600 pages, the fraudsters posed as telecom and regulatory officials. They convinced the victim that her mobile number was linked to a serious money laundering case. Over several days, the couple was kept under constant psychological pressure in what officials describe as a “digital arrest”, leaving them isolated and fearful. Under this pressure, they were coerced into transferring large sums of money across multiple bank accounts.
The investigation has revealed that the money was routed through at least eight different accounts, including those linked to NGOs and private firms. This layering was done deliberately to break the money trail and avoid detection. Some NGO operators were reportedly misled into believing they were receiving legitimate CSR funds, even being offered commissions to facilitate the transactions.
Behind the scenes, hotel meetings and coordinated planning played a key role. In one instance, funds were transferred shortly after a meeting between accused individuals, pointing to real-time execution of the plan.
A major tool in the scam was the use of malicious APK files. These allowed fraudsters to gain remote access to the victims’ devices, monitor their activities, and carry out banking transactions without their knowledge. This gave the accused complete control over the couple’s finances.
Investigators also suspect an international angle. Links to handlers based in countries like China, Cambodia, Taiwan, and Dubai have emerged, suggesting the operation may be part of a larger cross-border cybercrime network.
Interestingly, cracks within the network have also surfaced. Some accused claimed they were promised commissions but were never paid, leading to internal disputes. These disagreements have helped investigators gather more leads.
Several people have been arrested so far, mainly those handling bank accounts and transactions. However, key masterminds are still on the run. Authorities continue to examine digital evidence and financial records to uncover the full extent of the syndicate.
Officials believe more details will emerge as the probe progresses, highlighting how sophisticated and deeply connected such cyber fraud operations have become.
