Maharashtra Cyber Unveils Instagram Network Selling Counterfeit Currency; Two Arrested
Synopsis
In a daring operation, Maharashtra Cyber has exposed an Instagram network engaged in the sale of fake currency, leading to the arrest of two suspects. The authorities are committed to combating this serious financial crime.
Key Takeaways
Maharashtra Cyber exposed an Instagram network selling fake currency.
Two suspects were arrested in connection with the scheme.
Multiple FIRs filed against the involved accounts.
Counterfeit currency is linked to organized crime and national security risks.
The agency is committed to ongoing monitoring of social media platforms.
Mumbai, April 7 (NationPress) In a significant operation, Maharashtra Cyber has dismantled a network accused of utilizing Instagram to advertise and distribute Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), officials reported on Tuesday.
They further indicated that numerous accounts were disseminating deceptive reels and content to entice users into unlawful transactions by promising rapid and unrealistic financial rewards.
Authorities have filed multiple FIRs against Instagram accounts implicated in promoting counterfeit currency, with two individuals — Rahul Anil Pawar and Yogita Hitesh Bhosale — apprehended in relation to the case.
Maharashtra Cyber emphasized that it has been actively surveilling various social media platforms to identify and prevent illegal digital activities. As part of these ongoing initiatives, the agency recently acknowledged several Instagram accounts that were discovered to be endorsing Fake Indian Currency Notes through misleading and fraudulent content.
Initial assessments revealed that these accounts were sharing reels and other inappropriate material aimed at drawing individuals into illegal operations involving counterfeit currency, often by offering deceitful and unrealistic financial returns.
Officials stressed that Fake Indian Currency Notes are often connected to organized crime networks and a range of illicit activities, including money laundering, financing terrorism, and other economic crimes.
The agency noted that the circulation and utilization of counterfeit currency can directly or indirectly bolster anti-national elements and illegal operations, rendering the issue not merely a financial crime but one with ramifications for both internal and national security.
Following the identification of such content, Maharashtra Cyber pinpointed the accounts in question and issued notifications under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, directing the removal of the objectionable material.
Moreover, notices were dispatched under Section 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to obtain information regarding the account holders involved in these activities.
Based on the intelligence gathered during the investigation, a total of four FIRs have been filed against Instagram accounts allegedly engaged in the sale and promotion of Fake Indian Currency Notes.
Among these, two FIRs have been lodged at the Nodal Cyber Police Station, Maharashtra Cyber.
In addition, acting on actionable intelligence, including names, addresses, and mobile numbers of the suspects, Maharashtra Cyber facilitated the filing of two more FIRs at local police stations throughout the state.
Officials mentioned that efforts are ongoing to identify and capture other individuals and beneficiaries associated with the network.
Maharashtra Cyber also stated that it remains vigilant in monitoring platforms like Instagram and Telegram to uncover additional accounts involved in the promotion, circulation, or facilitation of Fake Indian Currency Notes and to take prompt legal action against those engaged in such activities.
"Maharashtra Cyber reinforces its dedication to protecting the digital landscape, safeguarding citizens from cyber-enabled financial crimes, and maintaining the integrity of legitimate financial and digital systems," the agency concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the persistent threat of counterfeit currency linked to organized crime. This incident underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring of social media platforms to uphold financial integrity and national security.
NationPress
26 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the operation by Maharashtra Cyber about?
Maharashtra Cyber conducted an operation that uncovered a network using Instagram to promote and sell Fake Indian Currency Notes.
Who were arrested in connection with this case?
Two individuals, Rahul Anil Pawar and Yogita Hitesh Bhosale, have been arrested.
What legal actions have been taken?
Multiple FIRs have been filed against the Instagram accounts involved, and notices have been issued under relevant sections of the law.
How does counterfeit currency impact security?
The circulation of counterfeit currency is linked to organized crime and can undermine both financial and national security.
What is Maharashtra Cyber's ongoing strategy?
Maharashtra Cyber continues to monitor social media platforms to identify and address illegal activities related to counterfeit currency.
