The Central Bureau of Investigations of India (CBI) has apprehended 26 alleged organizers of illegal call centers in four Indian cities that deceived citizens around the world, including in the United States. The information was disclosed by sources within the department.
Under the codename Operation Chakra-III, CBI conducted searches in 32 locations in Pune, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, and Ahmedabad on September 26. The initiative was based on intelligence provided by American special services. Following the raids, authorities seized 58.45 Lakh Rupees (approximately $69,600) in cash, electronic devices, 3 luxury vehicles, and other incriminating evidence. These call centers are believed to have been in operation since June of this year.
During the search operations, CBI officers also apprehended 170 individuals involved in fraudulent activities. The cybercriminals posed as technical support agents and convinced mainly American citizens that their devices had been compromised. Victims were misled into believing that their personal information had been stolen, and unauthorized transactions were occurring in their bank accounts. They were also falsely told that they were under investigation by law enforcement.
Furthermore, the scammers coerced victims into transferring their money to supposedly secure bank accounts to safeguard their savings. In some instances, they resorted to threats and demanded payments through international gift cards or cryptocurrency.
The investigation revealed that the accused fraudulently obtained $55,000 from three American victims. One victim was misled into thinking that their financial activities were under scrutiny by the US tax authorities. Another victim was instructed to transfer $15,000 to a fraudulent cryptocurrency account. The perpetrators also utilized remote access software to siphon money from the victims’ accounts.
Law enforcement agencies seized 951 pieces of evidence, including electronic devices, financial records, communications, and other pertinent materials related to the operations of the alleged criminals. The offenders face a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, as well as monetary penalties. The court will determine the final verdict based on the circumstances of the case.