Global operation dismantles scam call center network in Nashik, focusing on defrauding Americans and Canadians, resulting in 5 arrests.
In a significant operation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided an illegal international call center in Igatpuri, Nashik, uncovering a cyber fraud racket that targeted US, Canadian, and other foreign nationals. The call center, operating from the Rainforest Resort, was run by six accused persons from Mumbai with about 60 operators working as dialers, verifiers, and closers, impersonating Amazon Support Services to defraud victims primarily through gift cards and cryptocurrency payments.
During the operation, the CBI seized 7 luxury cars worth around Rs 1 crore, 44 laptops, 71 mobile phones, Rs 1.20 crore in unaccounted cash, and 500 grams of gold. They also detected transactions involving approximately 5000 USDT in cryptocurrency (Rs 5 lakh) and gift vouchers worth 2000 Canadian dollars (Rs 1.26 lakh).
The arrests and seizures were part of a larger investigation into cyber fraud and financial crimes operating out of Maharashtra. The CBI registered a cyber fraud case on August 8 against six accused, all residents of Mumbai, as well as unknown private persons and bank officials.
The accused have been charged with financial fraud by impersonation and making phishing calls. The case involves duping victims in the US and Canada. The CBI is currently analysing the data retrieved from the seized laptops and mobile phones to gather more evidence.
This is not the first time such an operation has been conducted by the CBI in Maharashtra. In recent years, the state has become a hub for cyber fraud activities, with many illegal call centers operating from various locations. The CBI is committed to combating these crimes and ensuring the safety of citizens both in India and abroad.
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- This significant cyber fraud operation by the CBI in Igatpuri, Nashik, also revealed a connection to financial crimes, as around 5000 USDT in cryptocurrency and 2000 Canadian dollars worth of gift vouchers were detected.
- The general-news about the CBI's raids and subsequent arrests have been covered extensively in finance news, as the case involves fraudulent activities primarily using gift cards and cryptocurrency payments.
- The crime-and-justice sector is closely monitoring the developing situation in Maharashtra, where the CBI has registered a case against six accused involved in cyber fraud, with cybersecurity becoming a growing concern in the state, housing numerous illegal call centers.
