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Fraud

Inter-State Cybercrime Network Busted in Delhi

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Police have dismantled a sophisticated cybercrime ring that defrauded people by impersonating officials from various government agencies and by distributing malicious Android package kit (APK) files. The syndicate, which operated across several Indian states, used the Telegram channel "Baba Kismatwale" to buy and sell stolen personal and banking data. Two key arrests were made, including a B.Tech graduate who was allegedly the mastermind behind the operation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The cybercrime network impersonated officials from the Delhi Jal Board, banks, and power companies to defraud victims.
  • The syndicate distributed malicious APK files that stole victims' banking credentials.
  • The stolen funds were transferred using a prepaid fleet card linked to an Indian petroleum company.
  • The operation involved a Telegram channel called "Baba Kismatwale" used to buy and sell stolen personal and banking data.
  • The investigation led to the arrest of two men, Niwash Kumar Mandal and Pradhumn Kumar Mandal, as well as a juvenile.
  • The trio was part of a larger network operating in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
  • Police seized nine mobile phones, five ATM and credit cards, three cheque books, and several electronic devices during the operation.
  • The operation was led by inspector Vikas Buldak and involved a team at the Cyber Police Station (West).

Statistics:

  • Over Rs 2 lakh was lost by a victim who received a fake WhatsApp message warning of a disconnected Delhi Jal Board water connection.
  • The police operation involved raids in West Bengal and Jharkhand.
  • A total of four earlier cyber fraud cases were allegedly linked to Niwash Kumar Mandal.
  • The syndicate used a Telegram channel to operate and distribute stolen data.
  • Nine mobile phones, five ATM and credit cards, three cheque books, and other electronic devices were seized.

Sources:

  • "Cybercase: Delhi Police bust inter-state cybercrime network" - The Times of India
  • "Cyber Police Station (West)" - Delhi Police Website

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