Govt Employee from Gandipet Loses Rs. 3.4 Lakhs in Scam

Gandipet: A government employee from Gandipet Mandal, Rajendranagar, has fallen victim to a cybercrime scam, losing Rs. 3,49,025 after clicking on a fraudulent link claiming to offer financial assistance through the PM Kisan Yojana. The incident occurred on November 12, 2024, and was reported by the complainant on November 13, 2024.

According to the FIR, the 41-year-old victim, a government employee, received a message in his village’s WhatsApp group promoting a “PM Kisan Yojana money offer.” The message urged him to download and use an app (PMKISAN.APK) by clicking on a provided link. Upon following the link, he was directed to a website that appeared to be the official IndusInd Bank portal, where he was prompted to enter sensitive account details, including his credit card number and expiry date.

After submitting his details, the victim noticed two unauthorised transactions debiting a total of Rs. 3,49,025 from his IndusInd Bank online account (number 188096831210). The bank later informed him that an online loan had been activated in his name without his knowledge, with the funds being disbursed in two separate amounts of Rs. 2,20,000 and Rs. 1,29,000.

Who is Kondru Sanjay Murthy? First Telugu officer appointed as India’s Comptroller and Auditor General

Upon noticing the fraudulent transactions, the victim immediately contacted IndusInd Bank customer care, where he was advised to report the incident to the National Cyber Crime Portal. Subsequently, the victim filed a service request with the bank.

The victim has requested that legal action be taken against the unknown perpetrators responsible for the financial loss.

In response, K.J. Sneha, Sub-Inspector of Police, registered a case under Section 318(4) BNS and Section 66-D of the IT Act, 2000. The case has now been handed over to P. Narendra Reddy, Inspector of Police, CCPS, Cyberabad, for further investigation.

Public Advisory:

Here are some important safety tips to remember:

• Never respond to emails or links in messages or calls claiming to update or verify KYC documents.
• Never share your User ID, Password, Debit Card Number, PIN, CVV, or OTP with anyone.
• Change your credentials immediately if you suspect any suspicious activity.
• Remember: Banks, financial institutions, and legitimate organizations will never ask customers to share confidential information.
• Keep confidential details private – don’t share them with anyone, including family or friends.
• If unsure about the safety of your account, visit your bank branch in person.

Report Cybercrime:

• Dial 1930 or visit www.cybercrime.gov.in to report cybercrimes.
• In case of emergency, call or WhatsApp 8712665171.