Azamgarh | A major organised cyber fraud network operating under the guise of online investment and digital income schemes has been uncovered following a detailed investigation. District cyber police have arrested two members of an international cybercrime syndicate involved in online fraud amounting to over ₹15 crore. Investigators said the group targeted unsuspecting individuals through digital platforms and routed the defrauded money overseas after converting it into cryptocurrency.
According to the investigation, the syndicate used social media and online communication channels to lure victims with promises of high returns through product promotion, investment opportunities, and online gaming platforms. Victims were gradually drawn into transferring increasingly large sums after being shown initial gains, which were later found to be fabricated.
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Arrests Made in Lucknow, Network Active Across States
The two accused were arrested from Lucknow following sustained technical surveillance and financial analysis. Investigators said the network had been active for an extended period and had previously operated through multiple layers to avoid detection. Earlier, four other members linked to the same syndicate had already been taken into custody as part of the ongoing probe.
Authorities stated that the group had established a structured operational setup, allowing it to reach victims not only in Uttar Pradesh but also in several other parts of the country.
Use of Cryptocurrency to Transfer Funds Abroad
A key finding of the investigation revealed that funds obtained through fraud were not retained in conventional bank accounts. Instead, the money was converted into cryptocurrency and transferred to overseas handlers. Preliminary inputs indicate that the foreign endpoints of these transactions were linked to China.
Investigators noted that the use of digital currency significantly complicates tracking and recovery, enabling cybercriminals to stay beyond the reach of traditional enforcement mechanisms for extended periods. This method was central to the syndicate’s operations.
Cash, Mobile Devices and Banking Instruments Seized
During search and seizure operations, police recovered over ₹6 lakh in cash, multiple mobile phones, several ATM cards, cheque books, passbooks and other banking-related documents. A SIM card issued from Nepal and a currency-counting machine were also seized, indicating cross-border coordination and large-scale financial handling.
Authorities said the seized materials suggest that the syndicate was managing high-volume transactions in an organised manner. Initial assessments indicate that between 400 and 500 individuals may have fallen victim to the scam, including students, young professionals and small investors.
Single Complaint Led to Wider Exposure
The case came to light after a complaint was lodged at the district cyber police station by a resident from a rural area. The complaint stated that a family member had received an unsolicited message inviting them to join a messaging group. After joining, an individual posing as a representative of an e-commerce-linked company proposed an investment plan.
Over time, trust was built through repeated interactions, eventually leading to the transfer of large sums of money. When returns stopped and communication ceased, the victim approached authorities. Based on the complaint, a technical investigation was initiated, which gradually exposed the wider network.
Expert Warning and Ongoing Investigation
Cybercrime researchers from the Future Crime Research Foundation have repeatedly cautioned that frauds involving online investment, product boosting and gaming platforms are increasing rapidly. According to the foundation, the growing use of cryptocurrency and foreign handlers has made such crimes more complex, delaying both detection and fund recovery.
Investigators said the current arrests mark only the initial phase of the action. Further analysis of bank records, mobile data and crypto transaction trails is underway to identify additional members of the syndicate and trace the full extent of the defrauded funds.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution against offers promising quick or guaranteed returns, particularly those circulated through unsolicited messages or social media platforms. Citizens have been advised to report any suspicious calls, messages or links to the appropriate cybercrime reporting channels without delay.
The investigation remains ongoing, and more developments are expected as financial and digital evidence continues to be examined.
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.
