Police in Goa have busted an illegal call centre allegedly involved in defrauding United States citizens through online scams, arresting 26 individuals and launching a wider investigation into suspected international cyber fraud links. The case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act.
According to officials, the call centre was operating without valid authorisation and was allegedly used to target foreign nationals by posing as technical support agents and investment advisors. Victims were reportedly manipulated into sharing sensitive financial and personal information, which was then misused for fraudulent gains.
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Call Centre Allegedly Targeted US Victims
Preliminary investigation suggests that the operation was organised and involved multiple layers of coordination among individuals handling calls, data management and financial transactions. Authorities believe the setup was designed to systematically target overseas victims, particularly in the United States.
Officials said the accused allegedly used spoofed communication systems and fake identities to make the operation appear legitimate. Victims were reportedly approached through methods linked to fake tech support alerts, banking security warnings and investment-related schemes.
Investigators said such tactics were designed to create urgency and persuade victims to disclose confidential details or make payments under false pretences.
Electronic Devices and Suspicious Data Seized
During the raid, police recovered several electronic devices, including computers, mobile phones and digital storage equipment. Suspicious data has also been seized and sent for forensic examination.
Officials said the analysis of seized material is expected to provide crucial leads about the structure of the network, the scale of operations and the possible number of victims affected.
Investigators are also working to determine the total financial losses caused by the alleged scam. The digital evidence is being examined to identify communication channels, transaction trails and possible links to other individuals connected with the racket.
International Cyber Fraud Links Under Probe
Authorities suspect that the Goa-based operation may be part of a larger international cyber fraud network with multiple interconnected nodes. Efforts are underway to trace financial transactions, identify key organisers and examine whether similar setups are operating in other locations.
Interrogation of the arrested individuals is continuing to determine the command structure of the call centre and identify those responsible for managing funds and coordinating communication systems.
Officials said further arrests cannot be ruled out as the investigation progresses. The case remains under active probe, with police expecting more details to emerge about the network’s international connections and operational methods.