Who Are the Three Cyber Fraudsters Arrested by CBI for SIM Card Supply?
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Synopsis
The CBI has taken significant action against cyber fraud, arresting three gang members involved in supplying thousands of SIM cards used for phishing scams. This operation, dubbed 'Operation Chakra-V,' aims to dismantle the infrastructure supporting cybercrime across India. Learn more about the implications of this crackdown on digital fraud.
Key Takeaways
- CBI arrests three members of a cyber fraud gang.
- 21,000 SIM cards were illegally supplied for fraudulent activities.
- The operation is part of Operation Chakra-V, aimed at combating cybercrime.
- Phishing messages included fake loans and investments.
- Collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications was key in the investigation.
New Delhi, Dec 15 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended three members of an organized cyber criminal group during operations in Delhi, Noida, and Chandigarh. They were implicated in the supply of 21,000 SIM cards that were used to disseminate bulk messages related to scams such as digital arrests, loan frauds, and investment schemes, as reported by an official on Monday.
The individuals, identified as Sonveer Singh, Maneesh Upreti, and Himalaya, were taken into custody after the CBI discovered that they were facilitating bulk SMS services for cyber criminals involved in sending phishing messages.
According to the investigation, even international cyber criminals utilized this service to defraud Indian citizens, the statement indicated.
Initial findings revealed that approximately 21,000 SIM cards were acquired in violation of DoT regulations, as stated by the CBI.
These SIM cards were managed via an online platform designed for sending bulk messages. The content of these messages falsely advertised loans, investment opportunities, and other financial incentives with the intent of extracting personal and banking information from unsuspecting victims.
A statement from the CBI disclosed that the agency's actions, part of Operation Chakra-V, disrupted a significant cyber fraud network that was responsible for disseminating phishing messages nationwide.
“These messages were deceiving individuals into various cyber frauds, including fake digital arrests, loan scams, and investment frauds,” the statement mentioned.
Under the umbrella of Operation Chakra-V, aimed at dismantling the infrastructure of cybercrime in India, the CBI analyzed the vast number of fraudulent SMS messages that people receive daily, which often lead to severe financial losses.
During the investigation, the CBI pinpointed an organized cyber gang operating from the NCR/Chandigarh region, which was providing bulk SMS services to cyber criminals.
The CBI noted that the SIM cards, which were illicitly obtained by the gang, were managed through an online platform to send extensive messages.
In collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and leveraging information from various sources, including the Sanchar Saathi portal, the CBI lodged a case against the private entity, Lord Mahavira Services India Pvt. Ltd., which was reportedly facilitating this unlawful operation.
During extensive searches across multiple cities, the CBI uncovered a fully operational system utilized for sending phishing messages, comprising servers, communication devices, USB hubs, dongles, and thousands of SIM cards. This setup enabled the dispatch of lakhs of fraudulent messages daily, as per the statement.
The CBI has confiscated crucial digital evidence, unaccounted cash, and cryptocurrency during the operation. Preliminary findings also indicate the potential involvement of certain channel partners from telecom companies and their employees, who aided in the illegal procurement of SIM cards for these fraudulent activities, according to the CBI.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing battle against cybercrime in India. The recent arrests by the CBI underscore the importance of robust regulatory frameworks and vigilant enforcement. The involvement of organized gangs highlights the need for public awareness and education on the risks associated with digital communication. NationPress will continue to follow these developments closely, advocating for stronger protections against cyber threats.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent CBI operation about?
The recent operation by the CBI led to the arrest of three individuals involved in supplying 21,000 SIM cards used for sending phishing SMS messages related to various scams.
How did the CBI identify the cyber gang?
The CBI identified the gang through investigations that revealed they were providing bulk SMS services to cyber criminals, facilitating fraudulent activities.
What types of scams were involved?
The scams included fake digital arrests, loan scams, and investment frauds aimed at stealing personal and banking information from victims.
What is Operation Chakra-V?
Operation Chakra-V is a CBI initiative focused on dismantling cybercrime operations in India by targeting organized groups involved in sending fraudulent messages.
What actions were taken during the operation?
The CBI conducted multi-city raids, seized digital evidence, confiscated unaccounted cash and cryptocurrency, and registered cases against involved companies.
