77-Year-Old Bengaluru Woman Cheated of ₹1.2 Crore in Cyber Scam

In a distressing incident, a 77-year-old woman from Bengaluru fell victim to cyber criminals who posed as officials from the telecom department and the Mumbai Crime Branch, ultimately swindling her out of Rs 1.2 crore.

Details of the Scam

The scam unfolded over nearly 20 days, causing immense mental and financial distress to the elderly woman and her family. According to a report by The Hindu, it began on June 26 when the victim, Lakshmi Shivakumar, received a call from someone claiming to be from the Telecom Department. The caller alleged fraudulent use of her identity for illegal activities in Mumbai and claimed a complaint had been lodged with the Mumbai Crime Branch.

Elaborate Deception

Shortly after, the victim received subsequent calls from individuals posing as officers from the Mumbai Crime Branch, named Sandeep Rao and Akash Kulhari. They falsely accused her of money laundering and coerced her into sharing sensitive financial information under the guise of verifying her innocence. They even presented a fabricated FIR and arrest warrant to intimidate her further.

Financial Loss and Realization

In fear of legal consequences, the victim complied and shared her bank details, leading to the fraudulent transfer of Rs 1,28,70,000 from her account. The scammers assured her the money would be returned after their investigation but ceased all contact once the transfer was complete. Realizing she had been deceived, the victim sought advice from family and friends before reporting the incident to the police.

Staying Safe: Protecting Against Cyber Scams

Vigilance is Key

As online scams proliferate in India, it is crucial to remain vigilant, especially when helping elderly individuals who may be more susceptible.

Tips to Stay Protected

• Verify Identity: Always confirm the caller’s identity using official contact details.
• Avoid Sharing Information: Never disclose personal or financial information over the phone, especially to unknown callers.
• Recognize Red Flags: Genuine officials do not threaten immediate arrest or demand money transfers.
• Seek Support: In case of suspicious calls, notify family and authorities promptly to prevent further harm.

By staying calm, verifying information, and taking proactive steps, individuals can better protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to such deceitful schemes.