A cyber fraud case has been reported in Mangaluru after unidentified fraudsters allegedly hacked a man’s mobile phone and siphoned off nearly Rs 6.91 lakh from multiple bank accounts through unauthorised online transactions, prompting a police investigation into the method used to access the device and move the funds.
Unauthorised Transfers Detected Through SMS Alerts
According to the complaint filed by the 54 year old victim, he noticed multiple SMS alerts on his mobile phone relating to money transfers. When he checked his bank accounts through the mobile application, he found that money had been transferred without his consent or knowledge.
The victim immediately contacted the 1930 Cyber Helpline and reported the unauthorised transactions. The complaint alleges that suspicious messages were sent to his phone, after which the fraudsters gained unauthorised access to the device and used it to carry out the transfers.
Police said the case has been registered at Kavoor police station and further investigation is under way to trace those responsible.
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Funds Moved From Multiple Bank Accounts
Further examination of the bank records showed that the money had been transferred from different accounts through UPI transactions. After obtaining the statement of his account at the Kavoor branch, it was found that Rs 3,76,620.88 had been transferred on May 3 through multiple UPI transactions.
Subsequent verification of statements from two additional accounts maintained at the Kulur branch revealed that another Rs 3,14,914 had also been transferred on the same day through similar online transactions.
The complainant said these unauthorised transfers were also reported to the Cyber Helpline for immediate intervention. The records available so far suggest that the money was moved rapidly across multiple accounts within a short time.
Total Loss Crosses Rs 6.91 Lakh
The total amount siphoned off in the alleged fraud was calculated at Rs 6,91,534.88. Investigators are now trying to determine how access to the phone was gained and whether any malicious message, digital link or other online method was used to compromise the device.
The complaint states that the fraudsters transferred the money to different bank accounts through online transactions after gaining access to the phone. The exact technical method, however, has not yet been publicly detailed.
Cyber experts have repeatedly advised the public not to click on unknown links, install unverified applications or share sensitive banking information, as such methods are commonly used by fraudsters to gain access to devices and financial accounts.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
