Mumbai’s Cyber Helpline 1930 Stops ₹600 Crore Online Fraud in 2025 — Quick Action and Awareness Help Save the Day
Cyber fraudster Mohammed Asif Pasha has been arrested for stealing over ₹20.18 lakh from three bank accounts in Karimnagar. This big catch was made by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, showing how online crimes can be tackled. The fraud was planned with another person named Jahangir, and it shows how personal information and digital weaknesses can be used to steal money from people who didn’t even know they were being targeted.
Shikha Goel, the Director of the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, said that this case serves as a warning about how easy it is for fraudsters to use telecom and banking processes to steal money.
How the Scam Happened
Jahangir worked with Samiuddin, who was the brother of the victim, Sabiha Sultana.
He knew about Samiuddin’s financial activities, which started the crime. After Samiuddin died, Jahangir found out that his two bank accounts were still active. Along with Sabiha’s account, these were all linked to the same mobile number. That was the key point the fraudsters used.
Here’s how it all went down:
First, Jahangir got the victim’s mobile number blocked.
Then, he got a new SIM card using fake documents in the name of Mohammed Asif Pasha. With that new SIM, the fraudsters started getting SMS-based OTPs and account alerts. This gave them control over the victim’s accounts.
Using this access, Asif and Jahangir made several transfers and withdrawals, moving a total of ₹20,18,557 over time.
The scheme wasn’t a single theft but a series of planned moves to avoid being caught.
The Betrayal of Trust
The main problem was that Jahangir, who had worked with Samiuddin, used his knowledge to take advantage of the situation after his employer’s death.
Instead of being loyal, he chose money and partnered with Asif to steal from the accounts.
Cyber experts often say that insider threats—whether in companies or personal relationships—are the hardest to prevent.
In this case, it wasn’t just technology that was used, but also personal connections and trust.
Police Action and Arrest
When the fraud was discovered, Sabiha Sultana reported it to the police.
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau started an investigation, looking for digital clues. They found out that the SIM card used for the fraud was obtained using Asif’s fake documents. That led them directly to the accused.
Both men were caught and taken into custody.
The police are now working to recover the stolen money and improve security to stop similar crimes.
Official Statement
Shikha Goel said, “The accused used the weaknesses in telecom and banking systems by getting a fake SIM card.
Over time, they transferred over ₹20 lakh from the victim’s accounts. People must be careful and report any unusual account activity right away.”
Her comments stress how important it is to be watchful in a world where cybercriminals are getting smarter.
The SIM Swap Scam
This case is a classic example of a SIM swap fraud, which is becoming more common in India.
It involves getting a new SIM card in the name of the victim and using it to get access to bank verification codes and messages. In 2024 alone, these types of scams have cost Indian people hundreds of crores, making it a major issue in cybercrime.
Impact on the Victim
For Sabiha Sultana, this wasn’t just a money loss—it was a breach of trust and security.
She lost money that belonged to both her and her late brother, causing emotional and financial damage.
Unlike traditional theft, cybercrime doesn’t involve a thief breaking into a house.
Instead, it happens quietly online, often without the victim realizing anything is wrong until it’s too late.
The Bigger Picture: Cybercrime in India
India’s fast-growing digital world has brought more people into banking and finance.
But this growth has also increased risks. Reports show that cyber fraud cases in India rose by over 25% in 2024, with financial fraud being the most common.
The Karimnagar case is part of a larger trend where criminal groups are working together in organized cybercrime.
Law enforcement is trying hard to stay ahead using digital tools, AI, and partnerships with other agencies.
Preventive Measures for Citizens
This case is a reminder for everyone to take precautions.
Authorities suggest:
- Don’t ignore any issues with your mobile number.
If your number is blocked or not working, talk to your telecom provider right away. - Avoid linking too many bank accounts to the same mobile number.
- Check your accounts regularly.
Small unusual transactions might be the start of a bigger fraud. - Keep your documents safe.
Fraudsters use fake or stolen documents to get new SIMs. - Use more than just SMS-based OTPs.
Banks offer other security methods, like app-based authentication.
Conclusion
The arrest of Mohammed Asif Pasha is a big win for the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, but it also shows that cybercrime is becoming more complex and personal.
Citizens need to be more alert and take action to protect themselves.
As technology improves, so do the methods of fraudsters.
But with awareness, vigilance, and strong cyber protection, such crimes can be stopped.
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