Mumbai. The Ulhasnagar Police Crime Branch has arrested five people allegedly involved in an interstate cyber fraud network that targeted buyers across India through fake online advertisements. The suspects allegedly lured victims with offers of iPhones, other smartphones and furniture at prices far below market rates, collected payments through digital channels and then disappeared without delivering the promised products.
According to investigators, the alleged fraud began with advertisements posted through fraudulent Instagram accounts. The accounts were designed to make the offers appear genuine and attract people looking for expensive electronic goods and furniture at discounted prices. Once a potential buyer showed interest, the suspects allegedly shifted the conversation to WhatsApp and began discussing the supposed order and delivery process.
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The accused allegedly used several methods to build trust before demanding payment. Investigators said buyers were sent fake parcel barcodes and videos showing packages being prepared for dispatch. The material was allegedly intended to convince victims that their purchases had been packed and were ready to be delivered.
After gaining the confidence of the buyers, the suspects allegedly asked them to make online payments. Once the money was transferred, the accused reportedly stopped responding to the victims and the promised goods were never delivered. Investigators are now examining the digital trail to determine how the fraudulent Instagram accounts were created and operated and whether more people were involved in running the network.
Five accused arrested in Ulhasnagar
The arrests followed a tip-off received by the Ulhasnagar Crime Branch. Acting on the information, police teams conducted a raid at a location in Ulhasnagar and arrested five people suspected of playing key roles in the alleged network.
During the operation, investigators also seized mobile phones valued at around ₹1.20 lakh. The devices are being examined for evidence related to the alleged fraud, including communication with victims, social media activity, payment details and information about other members of the network.
The seizure is expected to help investigators establish how the suspects communicated with prospective buyers and coordinated the alleged transactions. Digital evidence could also provide clues about other fraudulent accounts and phone numbers used in the operation.
114 bank accounts under scanner
The investigation has revealed a much wider financial trail. According to police, mobile numbers and email addresses allegedly used by the network have been linked to at least 75 complaints registered on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
Investigators also found that the alleged gang used 114 bank accounts in connection with the movement of money obtained through the fraudulent transactions. Police are examining these accounts to trace where the money went after victims made payments and to identify individuals who may have helped receive, transfer or withdraw the funds.
The large number of linked accounts and cybercrime complaints has raised the possibility that the arrested suspects may have been operating as part of a wider network rather than carrying out isolated frauds. Investigators are therefore checking financial records and digital communications to establish the scale of the alleged operation.
More victims and associates being traced
A case has been registered at Ulhasnagar Police Station, and further investigation is underway. Police are examining the seized mobile phones, bank records, communication details and other digital evidence to identify additional suspects and determine whether more victims were targeted.
Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said fraudsters increasingly rely on a combination of social media advertising and staged delivery evidence to overcome buyers’ doubts. “A fake product advertisement creates the initial attraction, while parcel videos, tracking details and repeated WhatsApp communication are used to establish credibility. Once payment is made, the fraudsters cut off contact,” he said.
Investigators are also examining whether the same group operated multiple Instagram identities and used different bank accounts to receive payments from victims. The police action is expected to provide further leads into the alleged interstate network and help identify people connected with the financial and digital infrastructure used in the fraud.
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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.
