Have Cybercriminals in Patna Been Busted for Loan Scams?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Stay informed about the latest scams to protect yourself.
- Always verify loan offers through official channels.
- Never disclose personal information over the phone or through messages.
- Be wary of unsolicited messages or calls offering loans.
- Report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.
Patna, July 11 (NationPress) The rising tide of cyber fraud in Bihar presents a formidable challenge for law enforcement. In a significant achievement, the Patna Cyber Police Station has dismantled a gang responsible for defrauding individuals of crores of rupees by falsely promising personal loans.
City SP (West) Bhanu Pratap Singh revealed that the scammers attracted victims through flyers and online ads, offering personal loans under the guise of SBI’s YONO App and other banking schemes.
These flyers featured toll-free numbers, and when victims reached out, the fraudsters impersonated bank officials to instill trust. They enticed victims with loans from various banks at enticingly low interest rates.
Once engaged, victims received WhatsApp links requesting personal information, including bank details, under the pretense of loan processing.
Armed with this sensitive data, the cybercriminals drained funds from the victims' accounts.
“The Patna Cyber Police Station has apprehended two suspects in this case,” stated SP Bhanu Pratap Singh.
The arrested individuals were identified as Amit Kumar from Nawada and Rahul Kumar from Sheikhpura district in Bihar.
During the operation, authorities seized 19 mobile devices, a laptop, 15 ATM cards, and Rs 4,500 in cash.
Officials estimate that this method has led to losses amounting to crores of rupees.
The police urge the community to exercise caution and refrain from sharing personal information or engaging with links received via dubious calls or messages.
Individuals are advised to verify the legitimacy of loan offers and avoid disclosing OTPs, bank details, or Aadhaar numbers over calls.
“A moment's negligence can result in financial devastation. Remain alert against cyber fraud,” warned Singh.
This incident highlights the evolving tactics of cybercriminals targeting individuals with seemingly attractive offers, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance to thwart such crimes.