Delhi Couple Duped of ₹14.85 Crore in Sophisticated Cyber Scam, Police Launch Investigation

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A south Delhi couple, both doctors, fell victim to a complex cyber scam that allegedly duped them of ₹14.85 crore. The scammers, posing as law enforcement officials, kept the couple under 'digital arrest' for over two weeks, pressuring them into transferring large sums of money to multiple bank accounts. The ordeal began on December 24 when the couple received a call claiming their phone number would be disconnected due to obscene calls and complaints. The caller linked them to a man in a police uniform on a video call, who accused them of money laundering and claimed an FIR and arrest warrants had been issued in Maharashtra. The scammers exploited the couple's vulnerability, as their children are settled abroad, and used the national security angle to gain their trust. They threatened to arrest the couple if they didn't cooperate, and even suggested an alternative to verify their identity, claiming it was a necessary step before releasing them. The couple was instructed not to contact anyone during this period, but when the calls stopped on January 9, they approached the authorities. Despite their medical condition and lack of support, the pressure continued, resulting in a massive financial loss. The Delhi Police's cybercrime unit has launched an investigation, and efforts are being made to trace the bank accounts and individuals involved in the alleged scam. The police have registered an e-FIR and are working to recover the lost amount.