Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Sep 10: Cybercrime scams continue to rise in Karnataka, with fraudsters increasingly targeting public representatives and officials. In three separate incidents reported recently, a former MLA, the Governor of Karnataka, and a judge were targeted by cyber fraudsters.
In the first case, fraudsters posing as officials from the CBI, ED, and judiciary duped former MLA Gundappa Vakil of Aurad of Rs 30 lac. On August 12, the scammers called him claiming that he was linked to businessman Naresh Goyal in a money laundering case and that his ATM cards had been seized. They staged a “digital arrest”, convincing him to deposit Rs 30 lac for property investigation. Vakil was told the amount would be returned after verification in a virtual court appearance. Realizing later that he had been conned, the former MLA lodged a complaint with the CCB cybercrime police, who have registered a case and initiated investigation.
In another case, Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot received two calls from individuals impersonating Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The callers tried to mislead him but the Raj Bhavan officials identified the number as fake. Based on their complaint, an FIR has been registered at the Central Cyber Police Station.
A third incident saw a Punjab-based judge fall prey to fraudsters in Bengaluru. On September 2, the judge, seeking to book accommodation at the government-run Kumarakrupa Guest House, was given a fraudulent contact number listed on a fake website. Believing it to be genuine, the judge transferred Rs 12,000 for the booking. Upon arrival on September 6, the judge found no booking had been made, and the phone number was found switched off. A complaint was lodged, and an FIR was registered at the Central Cyber Police Station.
Commenting on the incidents, Bengaluru city police commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh said, “Cybercriminals are using newer techniques each time. Digital arrest scams have become very common. We are increasing public awareness through social media to prevent people from falling victim.”
How to stay safe?
Vigilance is the key to avoiding such scams. If you receive such calls, never fall for the trap. Remember, police officials never initiate cases online or ask for money.
Most importantly, the term “digital arrest” is fabricated by scammers and does not exist in Indian law. If someone threatens you with it, it is undoubtedly a scam.
Additionally, never share bank details, OTPs, or other sensitive information over phone calls or messages, regardless of the caller’s claims. If you suspect a scam, report it to the authorities and your bank immediately. Quick action can help prevent further losses.