In a major crackdown on cybercrime, Gurugram Police have unearthed a massive online fraud racket worth ₹159 crore, arresting 43 cyber criminals involved in cheating people across the country. The police have also taken three key masterminds into custody, while further investigations are underway.
According to officials, the gang was operating a well-organised cyber fraud network that targeted victims through WhatsApp, Telegram and social media platforms, promising high returns on cryptocurrency and online investments. The investigation has revealed that more than 20,099 complaints linked to this gang have been registered nationwide so far.
How the scam operated
Police said the fraudsters used social media platforms to lure unsuspecting users into fake investment groups. Once added to these groups, victims were shown fabricated profit charts and testimonials to gain their trust.
The modus operandi included:
- Sending WhatsApp and Telegram invites posing as investment advisors
- Promising high returns through crypto and stock trading
- Allowing small withdrawals initially to build confidence
- Convincing victims to invest larger amounts
- Disappearing once large sums were deposited
As soon as victims transferred bigger amounts, the fraudsters deleted accounts, blocked contacts and shut down the groups, leaving people stranded.
₹159.73 crore fraud uncovered
According to Gurugram Police Cyber Cell:
- 20,099 complaints have been linked to the network
- ₹159.73 crore has been siphoned off so far
- Money was routed through multiple bank accounts
- Funds were later transferred to crypto wallets
- The network operated across multiple states
The racket was cracked using technical surveillance, transaction tracking and digital forensics, officials said.
43 arrests, more expected
So far, 43 accused have been arrested, including three main conspirators who were running the operation. Police believe the gang had multiple layers of operators handling fake accounts, payments, and recruitment of victims.
A senior police official said the arrested accused are being interrogated to identify:
- Other associates in the network
- International money trails
- Crypto wallets used for laundering funds
- Fake companies and SIM cards used in the operation
Several bank accounts linked to the fraud have already been frozen.
Police tighten grip on cybercrime
Senior officers stated that the action is part of a special drive against cybercrime in Gurugram and the NCR region.
“This was a well-organised syndicate targeting people across India. We are tracking financial trails and more arrests are likely. Strict legal action will be taken against all those involved,” a senior police officer said.
Cyber experts believe the gang used advanced techniques to avoid detection, including VPNs, fake KYC documents and multiple digital wallets.
Public advisory issued
Police have urged citizens to remain alert and avoid falling prey to online investment scams. Authorities advised:
- Do not trust investment offers on social media
- Avoid clicking unknown links
- Never transfer money without verification
- Verify schemes through official channels
- Report cyber fraud immediately on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in
Rising cybercrime concerns
Cyber fraud cases have seen a sharp rise across Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Delhi-NCR in recent months. Officials say increasing digital payments and lack of awareness have made people vulnerable to online scams.
Police believe that the busting of this network will provide relief to thousands of victims and help curb similar frauds in the future.
