How Did an Ajmer Teacher Lose Rs 12.8 Lakh in Cyber Fraud?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cyber fraud is a growing threat that targets unsuspecting individuals.
- Manipulation through fear tactics is a common strategy used by fraudsters.
- Awareness and vigilance are crucial in protecting oneself from scams.
- Police efforts are ongoing to dismantle organized crime networks.
- Education on cyber safety can help prevent victimization.
Jaipur, July 25 (NationPress) A female educator fell victim to a cyber scam, losing Rs 12.80 lakh in Ajmer district, Rajasthan.
The Ajmer Police have apprehended one suspect linked to this incident in Jaipur.
The victim, Gargi Das, who teaches English at the esteemed Mayo College Girls School, received a call on August 25, 2024, from someone alleging to be an officer with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
The caller threatened to disconnect her mobile service. Shortly thereafter, she received a WhatsApp video call from yet another individual impersonating an officer from the Mumbai Crime Branch.
This person falsely asserted that an FIR for money laundering had been lodged against her in Canada. The fraudsters intimidated her by presenting counterfeit legal documents and demanded that she remain silent.
Under duress and the fear of arrest, the cybercriminals forced her to transfer Rs 12.80 lakh through four different transactions.
According to Ajmer Circle Officer Hanuman Singh, an FIR was filed on September 26, 2024.
During the investigation, it was discovered that a part of the stolen money had been deposited into a bank account owned by Junja Ram alias Jeetu, a 23-year-old from Barmer.
The suspect had unwittingly rented out his account to these cybercriminals for Rs 10,000.
Authorities revealed that approximately Rs 1 lakh of the stolen funds was transferred to this account and subsequently withdrawn via cheque.
Jeetu, a BA graduate, reportedly acted out of financial desperation.
Investigators are now interrogating him to identify further accomplices and dismantle the entire fraud operation. This arrest marks the fourth in this ongoing investigation, with three other suspects already in custody.
The police continue to probe additional connections in what appears to be a highly organized cybercrime syndicate preying on unsuspecting victims through intimidation and manipulation.