Mumbai Cyber Cell Foils ₹85 Lakh Cyber Fraud, Prevents Money Transfer

Mumbai: The West Cyber Cell of Mumbai Crime Branch recovered ₹85 lakh, thwarting a cyber fraud attempt involving a fake WhatsApp profile. According to reports, the fraudsters had duped a South Mumbai-based businessman by impersonating him and instructing one of his employees to transfer the amount for a supposed business deal.

According to officials, the incident came to light on November 26 when the businessman, who owns a cement company, noticed the scam. The cybercriminals created a fake WhatsApp account using his name and photo, then messaged one of the company’s employees, urging them to transfer ₹85 lakh immediately. When the employee called to verify, the fraudsters disconnected the call, claiming to be in a meeting, and insisted on the transfer. Believing it to be a legitimate request, the employee transferred the amount.

After the transfer, the employee grew suspicious when follow-up calls to the number went unanswered. Upon informing senior company officials, it was confirmed that the businessman had not authorized any such transaction. Realizing they had been frauded, the businessman promptly contacted the Cyber Helpline at 1930 during the crucial “golden hour.” Responding swiftly, the Cyber Cell contacted the bank and froze the transaction before the money could reach the fraudsters' account. The immediate action helped secure the entire ₹85 lakh.

DCP Datta Nalawade praised the swift response and said,"The timely complaint allowed our Cyber Cell team to act quickly and prevent the transfer. We are continuing our investigation to identify the perpetrators behind the fake WhatsApp profile." An FIR has been registered, and efforts are underway to trace the unknown accused.

In the last 24 hours, the Cyber Cell has saved ₹1.31 crore from falling into the hands of cybercriminals. So far in 2024, Mumbai Cyber Cell has successfully prevented ₹136 crore from being stolen through cyber fraud. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious cyber activities to the helpline number 1930.​