3,402 Mobile Numbers Under Investigation, Cyber Police Step Up Verification Drive.
Hardoi – Amid a surge in cyber fraud cases nationwide, authorities have placed 3,402 mobile numbers issued from Hardoi under close scrutiny. Investigations by the district cyber police have confirmed that 901 SIM cards were actively used in cyber fraud activities. Officials stated that all the numbers are undergoing verification, and many have already been deactivated following fraudulent activity.
Verification Process and Technical Surveillance
To tackle the growing incidents of cyber fraud, police are leveraging modern technology. Each mobile number is being checked against Aadhaar and linked bank accounts. After verification revealed 99 SIM cards being used in fraud last Friday, the investigation has now accelerated to cover all 3,402 numbers.
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Under the supervision of Inspector Waheed Ahmed, officers, including Manish Kumar and Harish Chaudhary were seen meticulously reviewing suspect numbers over the weekend. Coordination with other local police stations ensures continuous updates on suspicious numbers.
Amirta Village: Hardoi’s Emerging Cyber Crime Hub
Investigations revealed that Amirta village has emerged as a hotspot for cyber fraud. Over the past three years, the lifestyle of some local youths has dramatically changed, with expensive cars and high-end mobiles, despite lacking regular employment. Experts suggest that stringent police action could unravel the full network of cyber fraud linked to the village.
Notable Cyber Fraud Cases
In one prominent case, Pushpendra Mishra filed a complaint with Shahabad police station. He alleged that Rajdevi, also known as Netain, convinced him to open a bank account under the pretext of securing a loan. Once the account was active, it was used to siphon funds through cyber fraud. Pushpendra had handed over his ATM card and passbook under the promise of a loan ranging from one to five lakh rupees.
Another major case involves Durgesh Singh Chauhan of Amirta, Sawayajpur. Complaints from Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh revealed that mobile numbers and bank accounts under his name were used for fraudulent activities. Joint investigations by the Sawayajpur police and the cyber unit have confirmed his involvement.
Misuse of SIM Cards and Bank Accounts
Investigations indicate that fraudsters often purchase SIM cards in other people’s names, sometimes withdraw cash wearing burqas, and misuse bank accounts to divert funds. To date, three arrests have been made, with additional suspects under investigation.
Citizens are advised to check the number of SIM cards issued in their name by visiting sancharsathi.gov.in. Using the “know mobile number in your name” option and verifying via OTP linked to Aadhaar, users can identify all mobile numbers registered under them.
Strengthening Cyber Security and Awareness
The Hardoi investigation underscores that mobile numbers issued from the district are being exploited nationwide for cyber fraud. Authorities emphasized that strict enforcement combined with public awareness campaigns will dismantle fraudulent networks.
Cyber police officer Ankit Mishra said, “Investigations are ongoing, and all suspects connected to Hardoi-based cyber fraud will face stringent legal action.”
This proactive approach strengthens efforts across the state to curb cyber fraud, safeguard citizens, and enhance the credibility of digital banking and telecommunications services.
