Ulhasnagar Police have arrested five people allegedly involved in an interstate cyber fraud network that targeted online shoppers across India through fake Instagram advertisements, officials said.
According to police, the accused posted fake ads offering iPhones, smartphones and furniture at heavily discounted prices through fraudulent Instagram accounts. The unusually low prices were allegedly used to attract potential buyers.
Once victims showed interest, the suspects reportedly shifted conversations to WhatsApp. They allegedly shared fake parcel barcodes, packaging videos and delivery details to make the transactions appear genuine.
After gaining the buyers’ trust, the accused allegedly demanded online payments. Police said that after receiving the money, the suspects stopped responding and the promised products were never delivered.
The arrests followed a tip-off received by Senior Police Inspector Rajesh Gajjal, following which the Ulhasnagar Crime Branch conducted a raid and arrested five alleged members of the network.
Police seized mobile phones worth around Rs 1.20 lakh from the suspects. The devices are being examined for digital evidence related to the alleged cyber fraud.
Investigators also found that mobile numbers and email addresses allegedly used by the network were linked to at least 75 complaints registered on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
Police further identified 114 bank accounts allegedly used to receive and transfer money obtained through fraudulent transactions. Investigators are examining the financial trail to determine the scale of the operation and identify other people who may be involved.
The alleged scam followed a common pattern: fake Instagram ads attracted buyers, conversations were moved to WhatsApp, fake parcel details were shared to build trust, and victims were persuaded to make online payments before the suspects allegedly disappeared.
A case has been registered at Ulhasnagar Police Station, and further investigation is underway.
