New Delhi, August 31, 2025 — Law enforcement agencies have cracked down on a large-scale cyber fraud scheme worth ₹8.5 crore, arresting 13 people accused of using fake accounts to move illegal money.
This case shows how cybercrime in India is becoming more advanced, taking advantage of weaknesses in the banking system and unsuspecting people.
The Bust
The arrests came after a joint operation by cyber police units from Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
These units had been looking into suspicious money transfers reported by banks. The investigation found that the accused created hundreds of fake bank accounts using fake documents and stolen identity information. These accounts were used as “money mules” to move money from online scams, phishing attacks, and other fraudulent activities.
Police confirmed that over 250 bank accounts were connected to the network.
During raids, fake PAN cards, Aadhaar details, and SIM cards were found. Officials believe this wasn’t just a local group but part of a larger organized cybercrime group with connections to people overseas.
How the Scam Worked
The scam was carefully planned.
Scammers first tricked victims with fake investment offers, loan schemes, and phishing emails that looked like they came from banks or government offices. Once victims sent money to these accounts, the funds were quickly moved through many fake accounts to hide the trail. The money was then taken out in cash or converted into cryptocurrency.
Some of the accounts were also used to move money for betting apps and illegal gaming sites.
Police said that by the time victims realized they had been scammed, the money had gone through many transactions and was hard to get back.
Cyber experts called this a classic case of “layering” in money laundering, where funds are spread across multiple accounts to make it harder to trace.
Using fake KYC documents helped the criminals avoid detection for a long time.
Victims Across States
Preliminary findings show that the ₹8.5 crore loss was spread across many victims, not just one person or company.
The victims were from cities like Delhi, Gurugram, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Jaipur.
A Delhi businessman shared his experience.
“I got an email that looked like it came from my bank, warning me about unauthorized activity. The email looked official, with the same logo. I clicked the link and gave my details. In minutes, ₹12 lakh was taken from my account,” he said.
Another victim, a retired teacher from Kanpur, was lured by a fake investment scheme promising high returns in just three months.
She sent ₹5 lakh to an account that was part of the scam. “It was all my savings. I still can’t believe how easily I was taken for a ride,” she said.
Police Statement
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Crime) Anjali Mehta told the media:
“We have arrested 13 people so far, and more are being looked into.
The accused were working in a highly organized way, with each person doing specific tasks — creating fake IDs, opening bank accounts, managing SIM cards, and withdrawing cash. This case shows the need for stronger KYC checks and better coordination between banks and telecom companies.”
She added that more arrests are expected soon as investigators follow money trails that may go beyond India.
Growing Menace of Fake Accounts
The case highlights a growing problem of fake accounts in India’s cybercrime scene.
While digital banking and UPI make transactions easier, they also create chances for fraud.
According to a report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cyber fraud cases in India rose by 47% in 2024, with nearly half of them being financial scams.
These scams often involve fake accounts and SIM cards.
Experts say that banks and telecom companies must improve their verification processes.
Many fraudsters use fake documents or pay bribes to get fake IDs or SIM cards from small branches and mobile shops.
Call for Stronger Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity experts suggest that improving public awareness and digital security is important.
Most victims fall for scams because they click on suspicious links, share OTPs, or don’t check if something is real.
“People think cybercrime only happens to the careless, but scammers are getting smarter every day.
They can copy real banks, government sites, and even pretend to be family members with amazing accuracy,” said Rajeev Kapoor, a cyber law expert.
The government has started efforts like the 1930 cyber helpline and the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
However, the increase in cases shows there’s still more that needs to be done.
International Angle
Some of the stolen money is suspected to have been sent abroad via cryptocurrency.
Cybercrime units are now working with international agencies like Interpol to find the people behind this.
Sources say many of the arrested people were just “foot soldiers” — people who rented their bank accounts for small money, without knowing the full details of the crime.
These “money mule” networks are often used by criminals based outside India.
The Road Ahead
For now, the arrest of 13 people is seen as a big win against cybercriminals.
But police are cautious, saying that unless there are major changes, these scams will keep happening.
Banks have been asked to re-check accounts that are suspicious.
Telecom regulators are also being urged to tighten controls on SIM card issuance to stop fraud.
Experts advise the public to stay alert:
Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or messages.
Check investment offers carefully before sending money.
Never share bank details, OTPs, or passwords over the phone.
Report fraud right away to 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.
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