Gujarat CID Cracks Down on Cybercrime-as-a-Service Network
In a significant operation targeting organized cyberfraud, the Cyber Centre of Excellence of the CID Crime in Gandhinagar has made a breakthrough by arresting two individuals allegedly involved in the emerging Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS) model. The arrests were carried out on Tuesday from Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, following meticulous technical analysis and intelligence gathering by officials.
Understanding the Cybercrime-as-a-Service Model
Police officers explained that CaaS represents a dangerous evolution in cybercriminal activities. In this model, perpetrators offer backend services such as virtual mobile numbers, one-time passwords (OTPs), fake identities, and technical infrastructure to other fraudsters. These services enable criminals with limited technical expertise to execute large-scale cyberfrauds, including threatening calls, phishing emails, and various online scams.
Details of the Arrested Accused
The arrested individuals have been identified as Abdesh Singh and Shivam Rawat, both residents of Gwalior. According to CID crime officials, they allegedly operated two websites along with associated Telegram channels. These platforms were used to supply virtual numbers and OTPs to cyberfraudsters not only across India but also internationally. The accused were reportedly assisted by other associates in their operations.
Scope of the Fraudulent Activities
A preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused targeted e-commerce platforms, facilitating the creation of fake accounts and enabling financial fraud. Analysis of seized digital and banking records uncovered transactions totaling Rs 17.54 lakh through Indian bank accounts. Additionally, around Rs 20 lakh worth of USDT, a cryptocurrency, was involved in these illicit activities.
Challenges in Detection and Takedown
Officials noted that the accused hosted at least seven websites on foreign servers, which complicated detection and takedown efforts. This infrastructure was allegedly designed to bypass verification systems and support anonymous cyber offences, including threat calls, email extortion, and online cheating schemes.
Implications of the Case
This case underscores how cybercrime has transformed into a service-based ecosystem, mirroring legitimate online business models. By selling tools and access, CaaS operators lower entry barriers and significantly expand the reach of cyberfraud networks. The crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to adapt to and combat these sophisticated criminal strategies.
