In recent news, the Noida Police made headlines on November 17 by apprehending 14 individuals involved in a fraudulent health insurance scheme targeting unsuspecting citizens in the United States. Operating from a call center in Sector-2, the accused masterminds conducted internet calls, manipulating script-based conversations to deceive Americans into purchasing non-existent health insurance policies.
The Data Sheet Scripts: A Trail of Deceit
During the arrest, a substantial number of data sheet scripts were confiscated, revealing the intricacies of the scam. The modus operandi involved using internet calls, changing identities, and pitching health insurance policies. Successful pitches were then redirected to Harvard Business Services Inc., earning the fraudsters a lucrative $30 to $35 per deceived individual.
ADC Shakti Awasthi disclosed that the arrest was a result of actionable intelligence. This incident is not isolated, as Noida has witnessed a surge in cybercrime, making it a hotbed for such fraudulent activities.
Noida's Alarming Rise in Cyber Crimes
Noida, once known for its industrial prowess, is now grappling with a surge in cybercrime. Residents across the country are urged to exercise caution when receiving calls related to jobs, insurance, loans, trading companies, or courier services. The Noida Police emphasize the importance of verification to avoid falling prey to these scams, as data breaches can lead to financial losses running into lakhs.
Over the last six years, Noida has become a stronghold for cyber criminals, with more than 250 call centers exposed and shut down. Most perpetrators are traced back to areas like Ashok Nagar, Delhi, highlighting the need for vigilance and skepticism when dealing with unsolicited calls.
Unraveling the Scam: A Systematic Approach
Fraudsters operating these call centers often have insiders with a background in insurance or similar industries. Armed with data on individuals applying for loans or facing penalties, the scammers pose as bank officials. Their aim is to extract personal information, including email, Aadhaar, and PAN card details, under the guise of processing fees, policy installments, and loan advances.
Once armed with this information, they fabricate fake loan approval letters, sent via email and WhatsApp. Unsuspecting victims transfer money to designated accounts, which are subsequently emptied by the criminals. Additionally, these fraudsters leverage social media platforms to promote their schemes, enticing individuals with attractive offers.
Noida's Cyber Crime Landscape: Where Fraud Thrives
The formation of the Noida Commissionerate has led to the identification of specific sectors harboring these fraudulent call centers. Areas like Sector-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 15, 16, 18, 27, 41, 45, 49, 57, 59, 60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 80, 105, 110, 125, and 126 have seen the maximum number of arrests. However, the challenge persists as arrested individuals often secure bail, relocate, and resume their fraudulent activities.
Prevalent Fraud Sectors and Recent Cases
The most significant cyber frauds encompass fake job offers, enticing loans at discounted rates, false insurance claims, computer virus fixations, evading responsibility in road accidents, and exploiting foreign citizens with scams related to child pornography and fake telephones. Notable cases include the arrest of 84 individuals scamming Americans through gift cards and cryptocurrency, another case involving 14 individuals defrauding people in the name of loan lapsing, and a finance hub company duping victims of lakhs in fake loans.
The Fight Against Cyber Crime: Prevention and Response
Officials, recognizing the gravity of the situation, are taking proactive measures. Cyber Crime Station Incharge, Rita Yadav, reports the development of a comprehensive database of arrested cyber criminals, including fingerprint records. This initiative aims to facilitate swift identification in case of repeat offenses. Over 1,000 mobile numbers linked to cyber fraud are under scrutiny, and the UP Cyber Crime Police are gearing up to deactivate these numbers to curb the rising tide of cybercrime.
In conclusion, vigilance is the need of the hour to combat the rising wave of cyber fraud. The Noida Police, along with cybercrime units, are working tirelessly to dismantle these fraudulent networks. As citizens, staying informed, verifying calls, and exercising caution can collectively contribute to thwarting these sophisticated scams. Remember, in the digital age, awareness is our best defense against cybercrime.
Posts
0 Comments