Doctor in Puttur falls prey to Cyber scam orchestrated by impostors posing as CBI officers

Doctor in Puttur falls prey to Cyber scam orchestrated by impostors posing as CBI officers

Mangalore Today News Network

Puttur, April 3, 2024: The cybercriminals behind the scheme that ensnared a doctor in Puttur employed remarkably sophisticated tactics. Reports indicate that the doctor, employed at a private hospital, fell victim to an elaborate scam masterminded by fraudsters who impersonated officials from the CBI and Delhi police.

As per the doctor’s complaint, the ordeal began with a call from an unidentified number on the morning of March 28. Eventually, the doctor ended up transferring Rs 16 lakh to the swindlers.

The fraudsters, posing as CBI officials, meticulously crafted their deception. They sent the doctor photos of purported identification documents such as PAN and Aadhaar cards, along with images of the hospital, all via WhatsApp. Furthermore, they forwarded fabricated court documents, aiming to bolster their credibility and escalate the pressure on the doctor.

Under mounting stress, the doctor succumbed to their demands and parted with a significant sum.

Adding to the ruse, the fraudsters blocked the doctor’s calls, creating an illusion of inaccessibility. Even attempts by colleagues to reach out were thwarted, receiving messages indicating the doctor was either "not reachable" or "busy."

When the criminals demanded a second payment, the doctor confided in a close friend. Despite warnings of a possible scam, it was too late, as the funds had already been transferred.

Complicating matters further, all documents shared via WhatsApp were promptly deleted after being viewed.

The fraudulent operation was intricate. Impersonating Delhi Police personnel, the perpetrators informed the doctor that he was embroiled in a case involving drug trafficking, illicit funds, and human trafficking. They claimed a warrant had been issued for his arrest and insisted he appear before a CBI court in Delhi.

To lend credence to their claims, they even conducted a video call, showcasing individuals purportedly resembling CBI officers and presenting scenes from what appeared to be a courtroom with judges presiding.