Retired ONGC Employee Defrauded of Rs 8.1 Lakh in Elaborate Online Scam
In a distressing case of cyber fraud, a retired employee of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been allegedly swindled out of a substantial sum of Rs 8,10,001. The incident, which highlights the growing sophistication of online scams targeting vulnerable individuals, occurred in Kolkata and has prompted a police investigation.
The Deceptive Call and Fake ONGC Form
The victim, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, received a phone call on November 28, 2025. The caller, identifying himself as Srivastava, claimed to be a current employee of ONGC. Leveraging the victim's past association with the organization, Srivastava instructed him to download and complete a form that prominently featured the ONGC logo.
"The complainant said he accepted it as genuine because he is a retired ONGC employee," explained sources familiar with the case. This sense of familiarity and trust played a crucial role in the scam's success, as the victim did not initially suspect foul play.
The KYC Fee That Led to a Massive Debit
After the form was submitted, the scammer escalated the scheme by requesting a Rs 101 fee under the guise of a "KYC submission." The retired employee, believing this to be a standard procedural charge, attempted to make the payment online from his personal bank account.
The situation took a severe turn the following day when the victim checked his account statement. To his shock and horror, he discovered that a staggering Rs 8,10,001 had been debited from the same account, far exceeding the purported KYC fee. This unauthorized transaction revealed the true nature of the interaction as a carefully orchestrated financial fraud.
Police Investigation and Legal Action
Upon realizing the fraud, the victim immediately filed a formal complaint with the authorities. The case is being handled by the Girish Park police station, where an investigating officer provided an update on the proceedings.
"We are tracking the money trail and trying to nab the accused," the officer stated, confirming that a dedicated effort is underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators behind this scam.
The complaint has been officially registered under Sections 319(2), 318(2), and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), reflecting the serious legal implications of the crime. These sections pertain to cheating, dishonestly inducing delivery of property, and punishment for such offenses, underscoring the gravity with which authorities are treating this case.
Broader Implications and Public Caution
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online transactions and unsolicited communications. Key takeaways include:
- Verify Official Communications: Always confirm the authenticity of calls or messages claiming to be from reputable organizations, especially those requesting personal or financial information.
- Beware of Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to pressure victims into quick actions without due diligence.
- Monitor Financial Accounts: Regularly check bank statements for any unauthorized transactions to catch fraud early.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately contact authorities if you suspect you have been targeted by a scam.
As cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics, such cases emphasize the need for heightened vigilance among all citizens, particularly retirees and others who may be perceived as easy targets. The Kolkata police's ongoing investigation aims not only to recover the lost funds but also to dismantle any larger networks involved in similar fraudulent activities.
