In Bharuch, a retired man fell victim to a cyber fraud scheme that left him shaken and financially devastated. The incident began when he received a WhatsApp video call from an unknown number. The caller, who identified herself as Priya Agarwal, claimed to be involved in a police matter. She informed the victim that a 20-year prison sentence had been issued against him and his family members, which led to panic and fear.
The scammers, posing as police officers, threatened the victim, stating that he would be arrested unless he paid a large sum of money. They claimed that they had evidence against him from a person named Naresh Goyal. The victim, Amba Lal Parmar, was terrified after seeing the caller in police uniform during the video call.
Under immense pressure, he was convinced to transfer ₹40 lakhs from his bank account to the scammers. This amount was part of a fixed deposit he had made earlier, which he broke to comply with the fraudsters’ demands.
The case has now reached the cyber police station in Bharuch, where a formal complaint has been lodged. The police have registered a case and are investigating the matter further. Cyber fraud cases like this are becoming increasingly common in Gujarat, highlighting the need for greater awareness and caution among the public.
Cyber criminals often use fear tactics to manipulate their victims. They create a sense of urgency, forcing individuals into making hasty financial decisions. In this instance, the retired man, who previously worked as a senior operator at the GNFC, was completely unaware of the scam when he received the threatening calls.
As cyber fraud continues to rise, law enforcement agencies are urging citizens to be vigilant. It’s essential to verify information with trusted sources before acting on any such calls or messages.
The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal also advises individuals to refrain from sharing personal information with unknown callers. Many victims do not report such incidents out of embarrassment or fear, but it is crucial to report these crimes to help authorities track and prosecute the offenders.
In Gujarat, there has been a significant increase in reported cyber fraud incidents. Recently, a shocking case revealed over 165 bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities, amounting to ₹1,445 crores in transactions within just six months. These cases have raised alarms among law enforcement, prompting them to take stricter action against cyber criminals.
As technology evolves, so do the tactics of fraudsters. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about the latest scams and to exercise caution when engaging with unknown individuals online. Protecting personal information and financial assets is paramount in today’s digital age.
Authorities are working diligently to combat cyber crime, but the cooperation of the public is essential. If you suspect you are a victim of cyber fraud, report it immediately to the police or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Awareness and prompt action can help prevent further incidents of fraud.
Stay safe, stay informed, and remember that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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