In a shocking cyber fraud incident, a woman scientist from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc) was duped into transferring Rs 8.80 lakh following a three-day digital “arrest” scam. The central division cyber police have initiated an investigation, though the suspects remain unidentified.
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The scam unfolded on September 16 when a man impersonating a CBI officer contacted the scientist, warning her that a SIM card registered in her name was being misused and allegedly linked to multiple criminal cases, including human trafficking. Shortly after, another individual made a video call, claiming that the Supreme Court was involved and threatening her with immediate arrest if she did not cooperate.
Scientist was persuaded to follow scammers’ instructions
Under immense pressure, the scientist was persuaded to follow the scammers’ instructions, which included a chilling warning not to inform her family, claiming that her immediate arrest would follow. Fearing legal repercussions, she complied, transferring Rs 8.80 lakh to the fraudsters’ account.
It was only when the scammers requested additional money that she grew suspicious. After discussing the matter with her family, she realized she had fallen victim to a well-orchestrated cyber scam. A complaint was filed, and the cyber police are now working to track down the perpetrators behind this elaborate fraud.