How Did Cyber Criminals in Jamshedpur Deceive 12 US Citizens?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 12 US citizens were defrauded by local cyber criminals.
- Investigation initiated by Indian authorities.
- Criminals used sophisticated methods to deceive victims.
- Fraud operations primarily concentrated in Jamshedpur.
- Potential international victims are being investigated.
Jamshedpur, Sep 3 (NationPress) In a significant cyber fraud incident, no fewer than 12 citizens from the United States were swindled by local cyber criminals based in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, as reported by officials on Wednesday.
The situation came to light when the victims filed complaints with US law enforcement, which were subsequently relayed to India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
In response, investigative bodies in India have initiated a comprehensive inquiry at multiple levels.
Initial investigations indicate that phone numbers linked to Jamshedpur were utilized to execute the fraud, prompting central agencies to notify the Jharkhand Police.
Upon receiving this information, Jamshedpur City SP Kumar Shivashish instructed all DSPs and station heads to enhance monitoring efforts and dismantle cyber fraud networks in the region.
Authorities suspect that the scheme was primarily operating from neighborhoods including Sakchi, Mango, Telco, Govindpur, and Baridih. Multiple suspects have already been pinpointed, and operations are underway to apprehend them.
Investigators revealed that the group employed a sophisticated method, often impersonating technical support agents or government officials. They would reach out to unwitting US citizens, earn their confidence by fabricating issues related to computers, banking, or technology, and subsequently deceive them into making monetary transfers.
“The gang had effectively established a call-center-like setup, where English-speaking members specifically targeted international victims,” an official commented.
The network is believed to have international connections, with investigators not dismissing the potential for victims in additional countries beyond the US.
“We are collaborating with central and international entities to trace the financial pathways and identify the masterminds,” stated a senior police official.
Current evidence points to the core operations of the gang being concentrated in Mango, Telco, and Sakchi, from which calls were made and money transfers executed.
Police suspect that this group may have been in operation for months, if not years, before being uncovered through complaints filed abroad.