Senior Citizen Defrauded of Rs 7.51 Lakh in Elaborate KBC Lottery Scam in Mhow
In a distressing incident of cyber crime, a 65-year-old resident of Ghatabillod in Mhow fell victim to an online fraud, losing a substantial sum of Rs 7.51 lakh. The scam was orchestrated under the guise of the popular television show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), highlighting the growing menace of digital deception targeting vulnerable individuals.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
The victim, identified as Shivaji Pawar, a resident of Trimurti Nagar Colony in Ghatabillod, received an unsolicited phone call on Wednesday. The caller, posing as an official from Kaun Banega Crorepati, informed Pawar that he had won a lottery prize. In a classic ploy used by fraudsters, the caller then persuaded Pawar to disclose his bank account details under the pretext of facilitating the prize transfer.
Upon providing the information, Pawar discovered that funds were swiftly siphoned from his accounts. A total of Rs 2.3 lakh was deducted from one account, while an additional Rs 5.21 lakh was taken from another, culminating in a cumulative loss of Rs 7.51 lakh. This incident underscores the sophisticated tactics employed by cyber criminals to exploit trust and urgency.
Police Response and Investigation
The Pithampur Sector 3 police have registered a formal case in response to the fraud. Sub Inspector Sanjay Purohit, the investigating officer, confirmed the details, stating that the matter is being treated as a serious cyber crime. Given the digital nature of the offense, the case has been forwarded to the cyber cell for a thorough investigation, aiming to trace the perpetrators and recover the stolen funds.
Purohit emphasized that such scams are on the rise, often targeting elderly citizens who may be less familiar with online security protocols. He urged the public to exercise caution, advising against sharing personal or financial information over unsolicited calls or messages.
Broader Implications and Safety Measures
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat of online fraud in India. Lottery and prize scams, particularly those invoking well-known brands like KBC, are common tactics used to lure victims. Authorities recommend the following precautions to avoid falling prey to such schemes:
- Verify Caller Identity: Always confirm the authenticity of callers claiming to represent legitimate organizations.
- Avoid Sharing Sensitive Data: Never disclose bank account numbers, passwords, or OTPs to unknown parties.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately contact local police or cyber crime helplines if you suspect fraud.
- Educate Vulnerable Groups: Spread awareness among seniors and less tech-savvy individuals about common online scams.
As the investigation progresses, the Mhow police are working diligently to apprehend those responsible and prevent similar incidents in the future. The case highlights the critical need for enhanced cyber vigilance and community education to combat digital fraud effectively.
