India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) are increasingly falling prey to sophisticated cybercrime networks. Recent cases reveal that soldiers and officers from the CRPF, SSB, and BSF have been duped of lakhs of rupees through fraudulent apps, fake banking calls, and phishing links.
Officials confirm that cybercriminals are adopting new tactics, ranging from impersonating bank officials to posing as income tax consultants, luring personnel into sharing sensitive details. Once obtained, the fraudsters siphon off money within minutes, leaving little scope for recovery.
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Multiple Cases Across Battalions
In Varanasi, CRPF constable Anil Soren lost ₹5.72 lakh after cybercriminals tricked him into downloading a fake update of the SBI YONO app. Similarly, SSB constable Rajiv Oraon, posted in Sikkim, was defrauded of ₹77,040 during income tax return filing. His portal was compromised, and the refund amount was diverted to a stranger’s account.
Another case involved CRPF havildar Sribas Pal, who saw a loan of ₹2.4 lakh sanctioned in his name without application. Soon after, ₹3.85 lakh was withdrawn from his account. In yet another incident, SI Ratan Chand of the 48th Battalion lost nearly ₹3 lakh after paying a nominal “service charge” that gave fraudsters full access to his internet banking.
Cybercriminals have also attempted impersonation tactics. In one case, a fraudster posing as a senior officer pressured a jawan to make emergency payments via Paytm, though the soldier grew suspicious and avoided financial loss.
Expanding Cyber Risks in Forces
The problem is not limited to a single battalion or force. Reports from the BSF’s 100th Battalion confirmed that two personnel lost money after clicking on a fraudulent “Ayushman Bharat” link, which led to unauthorized purchases on their credit cards. Similarly, an SSB inspector, lured by a trading scam promising inflated returns, was cheated of nearly ₹16 lakh.
Authorities have now issued advisories urging all CAPF personnel to refrain from sharing personal banking, tax, or digital wallet details. Training sessions on cyber hygiene are being emphasized to prevent further financial and data loss.
Experts warn that cybercrime within paramilitary ranks poses not only personal financial risks but also potential national security concerns if sensitive information is compromised.