Meerut: A major cybercrime network operating fake telephone exchanges using SIM box technology has been uncovered in western Uttar Pradesh. The racket allegedly converted international calls into local ones, bypassing telecom regulations and generating significant illegal profits. Acting on inputs, the ATS conducted raids in Meerut and Hapur, arresting six accused linked to the operation.
SIM Box Technology and Call Masking Explained
Preliminary investigation indicates that the network had been active for nearly six months and was functioning in a highly organized manner. The accused used SIM box devices to convert international VoIP calls into local mobile calls, making them difficult to trace. This not only masked the origin of the calls but also caused substantial revenue losses to telecom operators.
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Key Accused and Expansion of the Network
During interrogation, the role of a key accused, identified as Saddam, emerged. He allegedly established contact with a Noida-based individual through his network. The devices were reportedly procured “on demand” through this contact, after which a full technical setup was installed in Meerut. The operation was later expanded to Hapur, allowing the network to scale its activities.
Officials said that SIM box devices are typically manufactured in China and a few other countries, and are illegally routed into India through unauthorized channels. These devices can operate multiple SIM cards simultaneously and are capable of converting internet-based international calls into local calls using Indian numbers. The process is commonly referred to as “call masking” or “call routing fraud.”
Hawala Links and Wider Cybercrime Nexus Under Probe
Investigators suspect that the network may also have links to hawala transactions. By masking international calls as domestic, such setups are often used to facilitate illegal financial dealings and conceal communication trails. There are also indications that the network may have been supplying SIM cards and technical infrastructure to cyber fraud groups involved in phishing and call center scams.
Notably, on March 18, a similar fake telephone exchange was busted in the Lisadigate area of Meerut, where two accused were arrested and three SIM boxes along with 32 SIM cards were recovered. At that time, leads about other locations had surfaced, but all suspects could not be traced by the local police.
The latest crackdown is being seen as a continuation of that operation, with agencies now expanding the scope of investigation. Teams are examining the supply chain of the devices, financial transactions, and possible international links connected to the racket.
Cybersecurity experts point out that SIM box fraud is widely used in organized cybercrime due to its ability to conceal identities and reroute communication channels. It is commonly linked with phishing attacks, impersonation calls, and large-scale scam operations.
With six accused in custody, investigators are now focusing on uncovering the wider network and identifying other individuals involved across different states. More arrests and disclosures are expected as the probe progresses, with agencies tightening surveillance on illegal telecom infrastructures.
