have busted a fake call centre operating out of Sector 16 (Image: Internet)
Noida: The Cyber Crime Police in Noida have busted a fake call centre operating out of Sector 16, arresting 16 individuals involved in an international online fraud racket. The operation exposed a well-organised network that primarily targeted foreign nationals through tech-support scams.
During the raid, officials seized multiple electronic devices, including laptops, desktops, monitors, mobile phones, and communication equipment such as headsets and routers used to run the illegal operation.
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Investigators revealed that the accused used paid advertisements on search engines and social media platforms to lure victims. These ads displayed toll-free numbers, often appearing as legitimate technical support services.
Once a victim called, the number was routed to specialised calling software used by the group. Posing as technical support executives, the accused would falsely claim that the caller’s device had been hacked or compromised, creating panic.
To gain the victims’ trust, the fraudsters convinced them to share access to their screens using remote tools. Officials said the accused would sometimes black out the victim’s screen to heighten fear and urgency.
After accessing the system, they would extract sensitive financial information, including banking details. The amount extorted varied depending on the victim’s financial capacity.
Police said the accused adjusted their demands after assessing the victim’s bank balance. Smaller accounts were typically targeted for amounts ranging between $100 and $500.
If a victim appeared financially well-off, the call would be escalated to a senior member of the group, who would demand significantly higher payments, making the operation more profitable.
Authorities found that the fraud proceeds were converted into cryptocurrency and routed through hawala channels to avoid detection. Initial findings suggest transactions worth several crores of rupees.
A case has been registered under relevant sections, and further investigation is underway to trace the wider network and financial trail linked to the scam.
