Jammu and Kashmir: Elderly couple digitally arrested for posing as TRAI officials and duping them of lakhs of rupees

News Topical, Digital Desk : Despite public awareness campaigns and constant surveillance by the Jammu and Kashmir Police's Cyber ​​Cell, a major fraud has emerged. An elderly couple from Srinagar has become the latest victims of digital arrest in Jammu and Kashmir. The couple, whose identities have been withheld, not only suffered immense mental distress but also lost ₹48.00 lakh to cyber fraudsters.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police officials, the fraudsters contacted the couple through WhatsApp video call and told them that the callers were CBI officials and were investigating the couple for their alleged involvement in a major financial fraud.

The fraudsters posed as TRAI officials.

The fraudsters posed as officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). According to police, the callers falsely accused the couple of being involved in a financial fraud case allegedly being investigated by the CBI. To make the calls appear genuine, the scammers also sent them fake orders from the CBI and TRAI, threatening to freeze their bank accounts and seize their property.

"The fraudsters forced the couple to remain under constant video surveillance for several days, even while using the washroom. They were forbidden from leaving the house without permission," police said. Police further said that after being under immense mental pressure, the couple transferred Rs 48 lakh.

The victim informed the police crime branch

After discovering the entire fraud, the victim couple contacted the Cyber ​​Crime Investigation Center and the Crime Branch of the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The team has launched an investigation to recover the money, but no significant progress has been made so far.

The Cyber ​​Cell said it has been repeatedly advising people that there is no such thing as digital arrest and anyone facing such situations should immediately identify them as fraudsters and instead of falling prey to their evil intentions, should immediately report them to the helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Swindlers are preying on senior citizens.

According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, a new trend has been observed where fraudsters usually target senior citizens whose children are not living with them due to their jobs or business outside. "People are again advised to be cautious to stay safe and not fall prey to these fraudsters," the Jammu and Kashmir Police said.

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