In a significant breakthrough against digital crime, the Cyber Police of Chandigarh has apprehended a 26-year-old man from Sirsa for allegedly orchestrating an elaborate online fraud that swindled a victim of a staggering ₹15 lakh.
The Digital Trap: How the Scam Unfolded
The investigation reveals a sophisticated modus operandi where the accused, identified as Sahil, created a fake social media profile impersonating a woman. Using this deceptive identity, he established contact with the victim and gradually built trust over several months of online interaction.
The fraud escalated when Sahil began demanding money under various false pretexts, including medical emergencies and other fabricated crises that played on the victim's sympathies.
Police Action and Investigation
The Chandigarh Cyber Crime Police Station registered a case after the victim realized the deception and approached authorities. Through meticulous digital investigation and technical surveillance, the police team successfully traced the transactions and identified the perpetrator.
"Our technical analysis and coordinated efforts led us to identify Sahil as the prime suspect. We recovered crucial evidence including the mobile phone used in committing the crime," stated a senior police official involved in the investigation.
Protective Measures Against Online Fraud
- Verify identities of unknown contacts through multiple channels
- Avoid sharing personal and financial information with online acquaintances
- Be cautious of emotional manipulation and emergency money requests
- Report suspicious activities to cyber crime authorities immediately
- Use official verification methods for social media profiles
The accused has been remanded to police custody as investigators continue to examine potential connections to other cyber crimes and identify additional victims who might have fallen prey to similar schemes.
