A shocking cyber fraud case in Bengaluru saw scammers steal Rs 2.8 crore from a victim after sending him a smartphone and SIM card. The fraudsters contacted the 60-year-old victim via WhatsApp, posing as Citibank representatives. They falsely claimed that a new credit card had been issued in his name, requiring him to switch to a new SIM authorized by Airtel. Believing the offer to be legitimate, the victim agreed.
Cyber Fraud in Bengaluru: Scammers Steal ₹2.8 Crore Using Malware-Infested Phone
On December 1, the scammers sent a Redmi smartphone worth Rs 10,000 along with the SIM. As soon as the victim inserted the SIM into the new phone, unauthorized transactions wiped out Rs 2.8 crore from his bank account. When he checked with his bank, he discovered the massive fraud and immediately reported it to the police.
The scam likely exploited pre-installed malware on the phone, allowing fraudsters to steal sensitive banking information. By cloning the victim’s data, they accessed his account and conducted unauthorized transactions without his knowledge.
Beware of Cyber Scams: Fraudsters Using Malicious Phones to Steal Banking Data
This case highlights a new cyber scam technique involving the delivery of malicious smartphones. To avoid such fraud, people should be cautious of unknown calls offering gifts or banking-related services. Banks do not communicate through social messaging apps like WhatsApp or request SIM changes.
If you receive a suspicious call, do not engage. Never switch to a new SIM provided by unknown sources, and avoid opening links from unknown senders. If you suspect fraud, report it to the police and cyber cell immediately. Staying alert is the best way to prevent cyber fraud.
Summary:
Scammers in Bengaluru stole ₹2.8 crore from a victim by sending a malware-infected smartphone and SIM. Posing as Citibank representatives, they tricked him into switching SIMs, enabling unauthorized transactions. To avoid such fraud, never trust unknown callers, switch SIMs from unverified sources, or engage with suspicious banking-related offers.
