Ranchi | Cyber criminals have cheated a man of ₹4.44 lakh by luring him into cancelling a non-existent parcel. A case has been registered at the cyber crime police station, and an investigation is currently underway. Preliminary findings indicate that the fraudsters posed as courier company employees, tricked the victim into sharing an OTP, and siphoned off money from his bank account through multiple transactions.
According to the complaint, the victim had travelled with his family on a religious trip towards the end of December. After completing prayers, he returned to his hotel room, where he noticed multiple messages and calls on his mobile phone. Around the same time, he received a call from an unknown number, with the caller claiming to be associated with a courier company and stating that a parcel had arrived in the victim’s name.
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False Shoe Order and the Cancellation Trap
The caller informed the victim that the parcel contained a pair of shoes. The victim clearly stated that he had not placed any such order. In response, the caller suggested that the parcel could be cancelled and assured the victim that a small amount would be refunded for the inconvenience.
Gradually gaining the victim’s trust, the caller sent an OTP to his mobile phone, claiming it was required to process the cancellation. As soon as the OTP was shared, unauthorised withdrawals began from the victim’s bank account. Through several transactions, a total of ₹4.44 lakh was debited. At that point, the victim did not receive any immediate alerts that could have warned him about the fraud.
Bank Alert Exposes the Fraud
The incident came to light a few days later when the bank contacted the victim regarding suspicious transactions. Upon checking his account, it became clear that a large sum had already been withdrawn. The victim then returned to Ranchi and lodged a formal complaint at the cyber crime police station.
Based on the complaint, police registered a case and initiated a technical investigation. Call records, bank transaction trails, and digital footprints are being analysed to identify those behind the fraud.
A Classic Case of Social Engineering
Sources associated with the investigation say the incident is a clear example of social engineering, a technique where criminals manipulate victims psychologically by creating believable scenarios. Calls related to parcels, couriers, traffic fines, or refunds often appear genuine, making it easier for cyber criminals to exploit trust.
Such calls are frequently timed when individuals are travelling, engaged in religious activities, or otherwise distracted, increasing the likelihood of mistakes such as sharing OTPs or sensitive information without verification.
Expert Warning on Rising Parcel Scams
Cybercrime research body Future Crime Research Foundation has repeatedly warned about the sharp rise in frauds linked to parcel cancellations, courier verification, and fake refund calls. According to the organisation, OTP-based fraud has become one of the most common and dangerous forms of cybercrime, as sharing an OTP gives criminals immediate access to bank accounts.
The foundation has noted that many victims remain unaware that no legitimate bank, courier service, or government agency ever asks for OTPs over phone calls.
Growing Incidence of Cyber Fraud
Police records indicate a steady increase in cyber fraud cases involving fake parcels, KYC updates, bank verification calls, and online refund offers. As digital transactions become more common, fraudsters are continuously evolving their methods to bypass safeguards and target unsuspecting users.
Caution Is the Best Defence
Police have urged the public to remain alert and avoid trusting unknown calls, messages, or links. Banks, courier companies, and government agencies do not seek OTPs, PINs, or confidential details over the phone. Any such request should be treated as suspicious.
In case of unusual or unauthorised transactions, individuals are advised to immediately contact their bank and report the matter to the cyber crime helpline. Timely reporting significantly improves the chances of freezing the stolen amount.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities analysing technical evidence to trace the cyber criminals involved in the case.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
