Kolkata Police has busted an alleged cyber fraud syndicate involved in making unauthorised withdrawals from bank accounts using cloned debit cards and arrested two key accused. Investigators said the gang allegedly used stolen banking data to create counterfeit debit cards, which were then used to withdraw cash from multiple bank accounts, causing financial losses to victims.
The arrested accused have been identified as Sarfaraj Ansari and Aftab. According to the police, Sarfaraj Ansari allegedly acted as the cash-withdrawal operative for the gang. Several cloned debit cards, active SIM cards and mobile phones, allegedly used in carrying out the cyber fraud, were recovered from his possession.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Aftab allegedly arranged fake debit cards and assisted in distributing the money withdrawn through the fraudulent transactions among members of the syndicate. Police believe both accused were part of an organised cybercrime network and are continuing efforts to identify and trace other members of the gang.
Investigators said the syndicate allegedly obtained sensitive banking information before cloning debit cards. The cloned cards were then used at ATMs to withdraw money illegally from victims’ accounts. Police are now examining how the banking data was compromised and whether additional individuals were involved in facilitating the fraud.
The recovered mobile phones, SIM cards and other digital devices have been sent for forensic examination. Investigators expect the analysis to provide crucial evidence regarding the gang’s operating methods, the identities of additional suspects and the number of victims targeted. Financial transactions and digital evidence linked to the case are also being scrutinised.
According to a Researcher at Algoritha Security, debit card cloning operations commonly involve the use of skimming devices, stolen card data or other cyber techniques to obtain customers’ banking information. The cloned cards are then used to make unauthorised ATM withdrawals. Consumers are advised to regularly monitor their bank account transactions, immediately report any suspicious activity to their bank and never disclose their debit card PIN to anyone.
Kolkata Police said the investigation is ongoing and that the interrogation of the arrested accused is expected to help identify other members of the network. Investigators are also working to determine the total number of victims targeted and the overall amount siphoned off through the alleged fraud. Further legal action will be taken if additional suspects are found to be involved.
