Man Loses ₹5 Lakh to Online Swindlers in Ludhiana

A 57-year-old trader from Ludhiana fell victim to a cyber fraud scheme, losing approximately ₹5 lakh. The incident highlights the growing concern over online scams targeting unsuspecting individuals.

Key Takeaways

• Victim received a fraudulent call from someone posing as SBI customer care.
• Personal banking details were shared, leading to unauthorized transactions.
• A case has been registered with the cyber police.

The Incident

On April 24, Suresh Jindal, a trader residing in Sector 39, received a call from an unknown number. The caller claimed to be a representative from SBI customer care, which led Jindal to believe the call was legitimate. Trusting the caller, he shared sensitive banking information, including his account details.

Shortly after the call, Jindal noticed unusual activity on his mobile phone. It was switched off, and he realized that his phone had been hacked. Within minutes, the fraudsters accessed his SBI and HDFC credit cards, resulting in significant financial loss.

The Aftermath

Upon realizing he had been scammed, Jindal promptly filed a complaint with the cyber police. The authorities have since registered a case and are investigating the matter. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities individuals face in the digital age.

Rising Cyber Fraud Cases

The case of Jindal is not isolated. Cyber fraud has been on the rise, with numerous individuals falling prey to similar scams. Here are some recent notable incidents:

1. Engineer Loses ₹18.62 Lakhs: A 25-year-old engineer from Surat was scammed after being promised a 20% commission for completing cryptocurrency tasks. The scammers initially contacted him via WhatsApp and disappeared with his money.
2. Chennai Police Arrest 13 Cybercriminals: In a significant crackdown, Chennai police arrested 13 individuals involved in cyber fraud, recovering over ₹50 lakh. This followed a complaint from a 72-year-old woman who lost ₹4.7 crore to the gang.

Preventive Measures

To avoid falling victim to such scams, individuals are encouraged to take the following precautions:

• Verify Caller Identity: Always verify the identity of the caller, especially when they request sensitive information.
• Do Not Share Personal Information: Never share personal banking details over the phone or online unless you are certain of the recipient's identity.
• Use Official Channels: Contact your bank directly through official channels if you receive suspicious calls.

Conclusion

As cyber fraud continues to escalate, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and informed. The case of Suresh Jindal serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution in financial dealings, especially in the digital realm.

Sources

• Cyber Fraud: 57-Year-Old Trader Scammed for ₹5 Lakh in Cyber Fraud | Ludhiana News - Times of India, Times of India.