A 28-year-old homemaker from Bhopal was allegedly cheated of Rs 3.85 lakh by cyber fraudsters who impersonated Mumbai airport officials, claiming that a parcel sent from London in her name required clearance. The Kajlikheda police registered a case on Friday after receiving a zero FIR from the state cyber-crime police station.
Incident Details
According to police, the victim, identified as Rakhi (name changed), a resident of a colony near Karond bypass, was at her parents' house in Gehunkheda on June 3 when she received a WhatsApp voice call from an unknown number. The caller introduced himself as Vijay Kumar from Mumbai airport and informed her that a parcel from the UK had arrived in her name. He claimed that Rs 25,000 had to be paid as airport tax before the package could be delivered.
The accused sent a QR code through WhatsApp and instructed her to transfer the amount. Rakhi forwarded the QR code to her husband, who made the payment from his bank account. About two hours later, the caller contacted her again and demanded Rs 75,000 for a "permission letter." This time, she forwarded the QR code to her father, who transferred the money.
Escalation of Demands
The fraudster subsequently sought Rs 1.85 lakh, which she arranged with the help of acquaintances, and later another Rs 1 lakh, which she deposited through an online payment outlet after paying cash. In total, the woman lost Rs 3.85 lakh to the fraudsters.
The caller continued to demand more money, which prompted the woman to suspect foul play and approach the police. The police have registered a case and are investigating the matter.
Modus Operandi
This type of scam, often referred to as the "parcel scam," involves fraudsters posing as officials from airports, customs, or courier companies. They claim that a parcel containing illegal items or requiring payment has been intercepted, and then demand money for clearance or to avoid legal action. The use of QR codes and online payment methods makes it easy for victims to transfer funds quickly.
Police advise citizens to be cautious of unsolicited calls and messages, especially those demanding money. They recommend verifying the identity of the caller by contacting the official agency directly using known contact numbers.
