In a major nationwide crackdown on organised cybercrime infrastructure, the police have busted a widespread “Ghost SIM” network that was allegedly supplying fake mobile numbers to facilitate large-scale online fraud. Operation Octopus 3.0 has resulted in the arrest of 66 individuals across the country. Investigators revealed that the network maintained deep links spanning multiple Indian states as well as international cyber fraud operations. The extensive enforcement action was launched after authorities identified 194 Ghost SIM cards that were directly connected to previously registered cybercrime cases. Based on these initial leads, coordinated raids were executed across 13 states over the span of a single week, effectively dismantling a structured physical and digital supply chain that supported telecom-based fraud activities.
Seizure of Fake Identifications and SIM Cards
During the coordinated operations, authorities seized a total of 544 SIM cards, which included 432 active SIMs suspected to be ready for immediate deployment in cybercriminal activities. The 66 individuals taken into custody represent various levels of the illegal operation, including individual SIM card holders, point-of-sale agents, and alleged suppliers. Investigations indicate that the network functioned by distributing these fraudulently activated or fake SIM cards to cybercriminals. The recipients then used the numbers to execute online scams, manufacture fake digital identities, and carry out financial fraud across multiple digital platforms. These unverified mobile numbers were widely utilised to operate fake social media accounts, manage deceptive messaging profiles, and facilitate complex OTP-based scam operations.
Exploitation of Verification Systems and Rural Targets
The police probe exposed the specific methods used by the syndicate to bypass standard security protocols. In several instances, agents were found misusing mobile number portability systems and e-KYC verification processes to issue additional SIM cards completely without the knowledge of the legitimate customers. These illicitly obtained SIM cards were subsequently diverted into illegal channels and sold directly to cybercrime operators. Furthermore, the investigation uncovered instances where the syndicate organised free SIM distribution camps in rural and semi-literate regions. These camps specifically targeted individuals with limited digital awareness, whose Aadhaar and identity documents were reportedly misused to generate large batches of SIM cards that were later absorbed into the criminal network.
Financial Impact and Global Links
Officials stated that the entire network has been linked to 76 distinct cybercrime cases registered across India, involving quantified financial fraud amounting to ₹101.87 crore. However, authorities believe the actual financial losses could be significantly higher, as several banking and digital transactions remain under active investigation. The probe also revealed a broader international dimension to the racket, as some of the activated SIM cards were routed to foreign locations to be used in international cyber fraud operations. Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh noted that Ghost SIM networks have become a critical backbone of modern cybercrime operations, exploiting structural weaknesses in telecom verification systems. Coordinated efforts are now underway with banks, telecom companies, and regulatory bodies to strengthen KYC compliance and improve SIM issuance monitoring systems to prevent future misuse.
