Navi Mumbai Professor Falls Victim to ₹1.81 Crore Cyber Fraud by Fake Tax Officials

Cyber Fraud Shocks Navi Mumbai

In a startling incident of cybercrime, a female professor from a well-known educational institution in Navi Mumbai was defrauded of ₹1.81 crore by scammers impersonating Income Tax officials. The perpetrators intimidated her with threats of a 'digital arrest' and utilized counterfeit documents to coerce her into transferring her savings.

The Start of the Deception

The ordeal began when the victim received a call from an unidentified number. The caller, claiming to be from the Income Tax Department, accused her of tax evasion and informed her that a complaint had been lodged against her in Delhi, alleging she owed ₹8.62 lakh in unpaid taxes.

Forged Documents to Enhance Credibility

To lend authenticity to their scam, the fraudsters sent fake documents via WhatsApp, purportedly from the CBI, Enforcement Directorate, and even the Supreme Court. They falsely asserted that her credit card was linked to a notorious case and warned her of impending legal consequences.

Psychological Manipulation Through Fear

Employing psychological tactics, the scammers informed the professor that she was under 'digital arrest.' They threatened to scrutinize her financial history and assets, claiming that if she was found innocent, her money would be returned. Out of fear, she divulged her complete banking and investment information to them.

Massive Financial Loss

Ultimately, the woman was deceived into transferring ₹1.81 crore across six different bank accounts within a brief period. Upon realizing the fraud, she promptly approached the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch to lodge a complaint.

Swift Action by Crime Branch

Under the leadership of ACP Ajaykumar Landge, the Crime Branch acted quickly, apprehending three suspects. Authorities revealed that the gang had been targeting innocent individuals by posing as high-ranking officials and using threats of 'digital arrest' to extort money.

Public Advisory from Police

Law enforcement officials have urged citizens to remain vigilant. They emphasized that no legitimate government agency conducts arrests through phone calls or WhatsApp messages. People are advised to disregard such calls and report them to local authorities immediately.