“Pay in Bitcoin Through This QR Code or Get Killed”: Ghaziabad Man Receives Chilling Threat via Letter

Ghaziabad: In a disturbing case of cyber extortion, Ashwini Sharma, a resident of Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, has filed a First Information Report (FIR) after receiving threatening messages from an unknown individual demanding ransom in the form of cryptocurrency. The FIR was registered on August 26, 2024, at the Nandgram Police Station, under sections 308(2) and 351(4) of the BNS, 2023.

The Incident:

According to the FIR, the ordeal began on July 12, 2024, when Ashwini Sharma received a menacing message at her residence in Raj Nagar Extension, Ghaziabad. The message, which was delivered through an anonymous QR code, contained a death threat against him and his children, demanding that she pay a ransom in Bitcoin, a form of cryptocurrency often favored by cybercriminals for its relative anonymity.

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Initially, Mr. Sharma dismissed the message, thinking it might be a hoax. However, the situation quickly escalated when he received another message from the same unknown sender. This time, the threat was even more explicit, stating that his life was in imminent danger if he failed to comply with the demand.

The Investigation:

The local police have taken this case very seriously. Sub-Inspector Ankit Rathore has been assigned to lead the investigation. The police are currently tracing the origins of the threatening messages, although the use of cryptocurrency and anonymized communication methods presents a significant challenge.

Ashwini Sharma, in his statement to the police, expressed deep concern for his safety and the well-being of his family. She urged the authorities to take swift and decisive action to bring the perpetrator to justice. The police are exploring several leads, including potential connections to organized cybercrime rings that have been known to operate in the region.

DCP City Rajesh Kumar stated that, prima facie, it appears that a single transaction of $24 was conducted through the QR code on July 12. He further mentioned that records are being requested from Binance Cryptocurrency Exchange, and assistance will be sought from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) India to aid in the investigation.

Wider Implications:

This case has drawn attention to the growing menace of digital extortion, where criminals leverage technology to target individuals for financial gain. The anonymity provided by cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin has made it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to trace and apprehend the culprits.

Law enforcement agencies across India are on high alert, as this incident is part of a broader trend where cybercriminals are exploiting digital platforms to intimidate and extort victims. The incident has also raised concerns about the adequacy of current cybersecurity measures and the need for more robust protection against such threats.

In response, the police have assured the public that they are doing everything in their power to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The authorities have also advised citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or messages to the police immediately.

This case is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by cybercrime in today’s digital age. As investigations continue, it is hoped that the perpetrator will be apprehended and that this incident will serve as a catalyst for stronger cybersecurity measures nationwide.

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