In a chilling case highlighting the growing sophistication of cybercrime, a youth from Shahjahanpur was duped of ₹6.48 lakh after fraudsters falsely branded him an accused in a Delhi bomb blast case. Posing as officers from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the accused used WhatsApp calls to create fear and repeatedly extort money under the pretext of “settling” the matter.
The victim, identified as Arif Hasan Khan, a resident of the Chowk Kotwali area, has filed a complaint at the cyber crime police station. Based on his complaint, a case has been registered against unknown accused, and an investigation is currently underway. According to preliminary information, the fraud began on April 9 when Khan received a WhatsApp call from an unknown number.
The caller introduced himself as an ATS officer from Delhi and directly accused Khan of being involved in a recent bomb blast. Shocked and alarmed by the serious allegation, Khan was told that strict legal action would follow if he did not cooperate immediately. The fraudsters skillfully escalated the situation, creating a sense of urgency and fear.
Soon after, the accused demanded ₹40,000 to “resolve” the matter. Out of panic, Khan transferred the amount via PhonePe. However, this was only the beginning. The fraudsters continued to call from multiple numbers, each time demanding more money while intensifying the threats.
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Escalation: ₹6.48 Lakh in 12 Days Across Multiple Numbers
Investigations reveal that between April 9 and April 21, the victim transferred a total of ₹6.48 lakh in several instalments. The accused used at least four different mobile numbers, making it harder to trace them. Each call was designed to maintain psychological pressure, with new threats and fabricated legal consequences.
This case clearly demonstrates that the fraud relied more on psychological manipulation than technical hacking. By impersonating law enforcement officials, the accused instilled fear in the victim’s mind and exploited it to extract money. Such scams are increasingly being categorised as “fear-based cyber fraud,” a trend that has seen a sharp rise in recent times.
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Cybercrime experts say that in such cases, fraudsters first create panic by accusing victims of serious crimes, then offer a supposed “solution” in exchange for money. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh explains, “In such scams, criminals target human psychology more than technology. Victims are pushed into a state of fear where they follow instructions without verification. Law enforcement agencies never demand money over WhatsApp calls—this is a crucial fact people must remember.”
Investigation Progress and Safety Tips
During the investigation, it was also found that nearly ₹3 lakh of the defrauded amount has been put on hold in time, raising hopes of partial recovery. Efforts are ongoing to trace the remaining funds through bank transaction trails and call detail records.
The incident comes at a time when awareness campaigns against cybercrime are being actively conducted. Despite this, many individuals continue to fall prey to such schemes. Authorities have reiterated that no legitimate investigation agency contacts individuals via WhatsApp calls or demands money through unofficial channels.
Experts advise people not to panic when receiving such calls and to verify the information through official sources. If anyone claims to be an officer and demands money, it should immediately raise suspicion. Citizens are encouraged to report such incidents to the national cyber helpline 1930 or approach the nearest police station without delay.
As the investigation continues, officials remain hopeful of identifying and arresting the accused soon. This case serves as a stark reminder that in the digital age, fear and urgency have become powerful tools in the hands of cybercriminals, and even a moment of panic can lead to significant financial loss.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
