Former banker loses Rs 23 crore in ‘digital arrest’ fraud in Delhi

The victim was told that his accounts were scanned and links to some terror groups were found.

According to the police, in August, Malhotra received a phone call claiming that his mobile number had been used for fraudulent and illegal activities. (Representative Image)

A 78-year-old former banker from South Delhi received a phone call last month. The caller, who claimed that the banker’s mobile number had been used for “fraudulent” and “illegal” activities, introduced herself as a senior official of a telecom company and later claimed that Mumbai police officers were involved in the “probe” into the incident.

Naresh Malhotra, who resides in South Delhi’s Gulmohar Park, was scammed for a month and confined to his house. According to the police, between August 4 and September 4, a total of around ₹23 crore was fraudulently siphoned off from three of his bank accounts. Around 20 transactions were made.

After the initial call from the woman on August 1, Malhotra received multiple calls from fraudsters impersonating officials of the Mumbai Police, Enforcement Directorate, and Central Bureau of Investigation. They placed him under digital detention.

Story continues below this ad

Malhotra said he was also sent a “bail order”, which the scammers claimed was to ensure he was not arrested. The scammers also asked him to appear on video call every two hours and made him sign an “undertaking to maintain secrecy”. He was told that his passport had been seized and that he would not be able to fly out of the country. The scammers also asked him to share his bank details and relevant investment details.

The victim was told that his accounts were scanned and links to some terror groups were found.

The cyber unit of Delhi Police is currently investigating the matter.

Malhotra told the police that the accused even threatened to harm his family members if he did not give them money.

Story continues below this ad

The IFSO unit of the Delhi Police Special Cell registered an FIR in the case on September 19 and funds worth approximately Rs 2.3 crore, which were transferred, have been frozen.

Rajneesh Gupta, Joint CP (IFSO) said, the matter is under investigation

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram

Tags:
cyber attack

Loading Taboola...

Canada, UK and Australia formally recognise a Palestinian state

World4 hr ago

The UK, Canada, and Australia have recognized Palestine as a state, going against the US and Israel's opposition. British PM Starmer aims to revive peace without Hamas and hostage release. Canada and Australia also recognize Palestine, condemning terrorism. Over 145 UN members recognize Palestine, with France likely to join soon.

View all shorts

Live Blog