Srinagar | In a major crackdown on cybercrime, authorities have dismantled a highly sophisticated international fraud network operating entirely through digital infrastructure. Seven accused have been arrested, and the investigation has revealed a well-organised cyber ecosystem involving transactions worth crores of rupees.
According to findings, the racket operated through covert call centres that targeted individuals both within India and abroad. Acting on technical inputs and multiple complaints, surveillance was intensified across suspected locations. This led to the identification of a key operational hub in the Rangreth Industrial Area of Srinagar.
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Subsequently, coordinated raids were carried out across different parts of the city, resulting in the arrest of seven suspects. A large quantity of digital equipment was seized during the operation, including 13 mobile phones, nine laptops, VoIP systems, SIM cards, networking devices, and digital storage media. The seized items also included several high-end smartphones and computing devices used for managing call operations and data.
Investigations revealed that the accused were running an unregistered and covert call centre powered by VoIP technology. This setup enabled them to generate international virtual numbers while masking their actual location through server routing and spoofing techniques. As a result, calls appeared to originate from foreign locations, even though they were being made from Srinagar.
To lure victims, the gang relied on fake websites and online advertisements. A fraudulent email service platform was created to mislead users, while Google Ads were used to promote links that redirected victims to toll-free numbers controlled by the accused.
During calls, the fraudsters impersonated legitimate service providers and manipulated victims into sharing sensitive banking and personal information. The defrauded money was then routed through multiple accounts, including “mule accounts” and cryptocurrency wallets. Notably, digital currencies such as USDT were used to layer and move funds across multiple channels, making tracing extremely difficult.
Investigators noted that no cash transactions were involved in the operation, highlighting the entirely digital and technologically advanced nature of the network. The seized devices contain crucial digital evidence, indicating that the racket was part of a broader, well-coordinated criminal setup.
Cyber experts warn that such networks are rapidly expanding by combining advanced technology with social engineering tactics. Renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said, “Cyber criminals are increasingly using VoIP systems, fake websites, and online advertisements to target victims. By concealing their digital identity, they are able to execute fraud on an international scale with ease.”
A case has been registered under relevant legal provisions, and further investigation is underway. Authorities suspect that the network may have links to international cybercrime syndicates, and efforts are ongoing to trace higher-level operatives.
The operation underscores how cybercrime has evolved beyond local boundaries into a global, technology-driven network, where fraudsters can target victims worldwide while operating from a single location.
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.
