Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Cyber Command has busted a network of alleged fake call centres operating from Bengaluru that were reportedly involved in cheating several United States citizens by impersonating representatives of QuickBooks, a widely used accounting software platform. The operation was carried out by officials of the Cyber Crime Police Station and the Special Cyber Cell during coordinated raids across four locations in the city.
Police arrested two individuals during the operation and have launched a wider investigation into the financial transactions and operations associated with the alleged fraud network.
Raids conducted at four locations
Officials stated that raids were conducted at four separate premises in Bengaluru from where the alleged fraudulent call centres were operating.
The arrested accused have been identified as Prashanth and Akash.
According to investigators, the accused were allegedly operating call centre setups designed to target foreign nationals, particularly citizens in the United States.
Police stated that the operation was initiated after gathering intelligence and evidence related to suspicious activities linked to online financial fraud.
Authorities suspect that the network may have been functioning for a significant period before the raids were conducted.
Victims allegedly offered fake services
According to police officials, the accused allegedly posed as authorised representatives of QuickBooks and offered fraudulent services to customers.
Investigators said the accused allegedly targeted people by offering fake tax guidance, software licence renewals, technical support services and counterfeit licence keys.
Authorities stated that victims were allegedly persuaded to make payments for services that were not genuine.
Police further alleged that the accused collected large sums of money from victims under the pretext of software-related assistance and support.
Officials believe that impersonation tactics and deceptive communication methods were used to gain the confidence of customers.
Shell companies allegedly used for transactions
Investigators stated that the accused had allegedly established a company named Circle Square LLC as part of the operation.
Police suspect that multiple shell companies were used to route and transfer money obtained from victims.
According to investigators, the network allegedly relied on different channels to move funds and conceal the financial trail.
Officials also stated that the operators reportedly used fake identities and names resembling those of US officials in order to increase credibility while interacting with victims.
Authorities believe these methods helped the accused gain trust and continue the alleged fraud activities.
Electronic devices seized during operation
During the raids, police seized several electronic devices and materials that were allegedly used for carrying out the operation.
The items recovered included 44 SSDs, two mobile phones, two laptops, nine CPUs and pre-written scripts allegedly used while speaking with victims.
Officials stated that other accessories connected to the functioning of the call centres were also seized as part of the investigation.
Police are now examining the digital evidence collected from the locations.
Authorities said further investigation is underway to trace the movement of funds, examine bank accounts and determine whether additional individuals were involved in the operation.
The probe will also focus on identifying the full extent of the alleged fraud and the number of people affected.