UP Police Bust Interstate Cyber Gang Operating Bogus Franchise Websites

Two interstate cybercriminals, including the gang leader, were arrested for cheating individuals through a fake website promising motorcycle agency/franchise opportunities. A large quantity of forged documents, mobile phones, and cash were seized.

On June 5, 2023, victim Dhirendra Bahadur Sisodia, a resident of Bhojubir, Varanasi, filed a complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station, stating that unknown cybercriminals had defrauded him of Rs 5,25,500 by promising a Revolt Motors agency/franchise via the fraudulent website www.revoltmotors.org and email support@revolt.email. A case was registered under IPC Section 420 and Section 66 of the IT Act.

Under the guidance of Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal and Deputy Commissioner of Crime Chandrakant Meena, a team led by Additional Deputy Commissioner Sarvanan T. and Assistant Commissioner Gaurav Kumar was formed. Using evidence collection, electronic surveillance, and digital footprints, the police arrested the two interstate cybercriminals in Varanasi. The suspects were found in possession of numerous forged documents, mobile phones, invoice papers, and cash intended for defrauding individuals seeking franchise opportunities.

Modus Operandi:
The accused first created a fake website and email that closely resembled the original branded company’s site with the help of a web developer. They promoted this fraudulent website through meta ads, Google ads, and social media influencers. Leads from individuals interested in franchises were captured through the website’s email. After filtering the data, they contacted victims, presenting fake company documents and luring them into their trap.

They demanded registration fees, GST fees, and security money, instructing victims to transfer funds to fraudulent bank accounts. The criminals then withdrew the money through ATMs and CSPs, distributing it among their associates. They used fraudulent Android applications named GST Council, NOC, FARB, and CTC to generate fake GST bills and other related documents within 20 seconds.

Details of the Arrested Criminals:

1. Pankaj Kumar, son of Ashok Prasad, resident of Barith village, Post Maida Barith, Police Station Katri Sarai, Nalanda District, Bihar, aged approximately 30 years.

2. Sunny Kumar, son of Virendra Prasad, a resident of Bhedi, Post Katouna, Police Station Katri Sarai, Nalanda District, Bihar, is approximately 29 years old.

Criminal History:
Both suspects have previous charges under IPC  Sections 417, 420, 465, 467, 468, 471, 411, 120B, and IT Act , 2000 Sections 66, 66C, 66D, and 74 at the Cyber Crime Police Station, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

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