Pune Trader Loses Rs 2.95 Lakh in Sophisticated RTO-Themed Online Fraud
A 47-year-old trader from Market Yard in Pune fell victim to a sophisticated online fraud scheme in October last year, resulting in a staggering loss of Rs 2.95 lakh from his bank account. The incident, which began with a deceptive message purportedly from the Regional Transport Office (RTO), has now led to the registration of a formal First Information Report (FIR) at the Market Yard police station this Wednesday.
How the Elaborate Cyber Fraud Unfolded
According to detailed police reports, the victim received a message on his mobile phone that appeared to be an official communication from the RTO. The message contained an encrypted link that, when clicked, downloaded remote access software onto the trader's device. Believing he needed to settle a pending fine, the trader proceeded to click the link without suspicion.
The trap was set when an application form opened on his mobile screen, prompting him to enter comprehensive personal and financial details. The trader, under the impression that this was a legitimate RTO procedure, filled in all required information, including his sensitive bank account details and PIN number.
The Fraudsters' Methodical Approach
Police investigation reveals that the online form then instructed the victim to perform a test transfer of Rs 10 to verify the payment process for the supposed fine amount. Once this small transaction was completed, the fraudsters gained immediate control over both the victim's mobile phone and his bank account through the previously installed remote access software.
Within mere minutes of the test transfer, the cybercriminals executed their plan, systematically siphoning off Rs 2.95 lakh from the trader's bank account. All the stolen funds were rapidly converted into online vouchers purchased from various websites, making the money difficult to trace and recover.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The victim, realizing he had been defrauded, submitted a formal complaint application to the Cyber police. After thorough verification of the details and evidence, authorities registered the FIR with the Market Yard police station, marking the official beginning of the investigation into this cybercrime.
Police officials have emphasized the sophisticated nature of this fraud, noting how the perpetrators used the trusted name of a government authority like the RTO to lower the victim's guard. They have issued warnings to the public about similar scams and advised extreme caution when receiving unsolicited messages containing links, especially those claiming to be from government agencies.
This case highlights the growing threat of cyber fraud in urban areas like Pune, where criminals are employing increasingly convincing tactics to exploit unsuspecting citizens. The investigation continues as authorities work to identify and apprehend those responsible for this substantial financial theft.
