Major Cybercrime Network Busted in Noida: USD 8.5m Swindled from US Nationals

The CBI, alongside the FBI, dismantled a major cybercrime network in Noida that defrauded US nationals of USD 8.5 million. The operation resulted in six arrests, the recovery of Rs 1.88 crore, and the shutdown of an illegal call centre. The scam involved posing as US government officials.

In a major crackdown, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), in conjunction with the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), has dismantled a transnational cybercrime network based in Noida. This syndicate is alleged to have defrauded U.S. nationals of USD 8.5 million through tech-support scams. The operation, part of Operation Chakra, culminated in the arrest of six main perpetrators and the seizure of significant evidence, including Rs 1.88 crore in cash and 34 electronic devices.

The U.S. Embassy in India lauded this collaborative effort, praising it as a strong example of the #USIndia partnership in action. Via social media, the Embassy highlighted the disruption of the sophisticated fraud network targeting US citizens and the recovery of illicit financial gains.

According to a CBI press statement dated December 12, the scam had been active since 2022, with perpetrators masquerading as officials from U.S. agencies like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Victims were coerced into believing their Social Security Numbers were compromised, allegedly involved in crimes such as money laundering and drug trafficking, leading to financial extortion through cryptocurrency and foreign bank transfers. The CBI's coordinated raids on December 10 and 11, in locations spanning Delhi, Noida, and Kolkata, netted six suspects caught in the act at an illicit call center.

The case, officially registered on December 9, has led to widespread searches and the collection of considerable incriminating evidence. Investigations reveal that the crime proceeds were channeled through virtual assets and bank transfers. The CBI is continuing efforts to recover additional criminal proceeds and uncover international connections within the network.

(With inputs from agencies.)