Cyber Fraudsters Scam Retiree with Impersonation Tactics

Cyber fraudsters impersonating ATS officers extorted Rs 21.5 lakh from a retired employee in a three-day 'digital arrest.' The fraudsters forced him to transfer money by threatening arrest and provided forged documents to gain his trust. A case has been filed against the unidentified accused.

Cyber criminals, masquerading as Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) officials, have swindled Rs 21.5 lakh from a 72-year-old retired government employee in Jabalpur, as confirmed by police on Saturday.

The victim, Avinash Chandra, was approached on December 1 through a phone call from someone claiming to be an ATS officer from Pune. The imposters alleged that Chandra's bank account and Aadhaar number were tied to terrorism financing, sending him into a panic.

With threats of arrest and property seizure, Chandra was effectively placed under a 'digital arrest' through video calls from 9 am to 7 pm over three days. Exploiting fear, the fraudsters compelled him to transfer money, assuring its temporary nature, while also acquiring his property details under coercion.

(With inputs from agencies.)