Hyderabad Cybercrime Unit Returns ₹1.3 Crore to Fraud Victims

Cybercrime unit Hyderabad refunds over Rs. 1.3 crore to 20 victims in January 2025

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Neelima Eaty 31 Jan 2025 7:46 PM

News in short:

The Hyderabad Cybercrime unit successfully recovered ₹1,37,61,261 from victims of various online frauds in January 2025. This was achieved through court orders that compelled banks to refund the money in 20 separate cases. The most common types of fraud included investment scams, FedEx and money laundering schemes, overseas job scams, impersonation fraud, and customer care fraud. The Cybercrime unit urges the public to be cautious of fake government agency calls demanding money, and to avoid high-return investment opportunities advertised on social media platforms. Victims of cybercrime are advised to report incidents immediately through 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in for potential recovery of stolen funds.

Hyderabad: The cybercrime unit of Hyderabad City successfully facilitated the refund of ₹1,37,61,261 to victims of various online frauds in January 2025. Following court orders, this amount was returned in 20 separate cases.

Breakdown of Fraud Cases:

1. Stock Trading & Investment Fraud: Eleven victims were cheated by fraudsters who promised high returns from stock trading and investment schemes. Based on court orders, banks refunded ₹54,91,550 to these victims.

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2. FedEx and Money Laundering Fraud: Five victims were deceived by fraudsters claiming to represent FedEx and engaging in money laundering activities. As per court directives, ₹26,82,741 was refunded to the victims.

3. Overseas Job Fraud: One victim was tricked by fraudsters offering fake overseas job opportunities. As ordered by the court, the concerned banks refunded ₹1,51,300 to the victim.

4. Impersonation Fraud: One victim fell prey to impersonation fraud by a fake company. Following the court’s decision, the bank refunded ₹48,19,670 to the victim.

5. Customer Care Fraud: Two victims were deceived in a customer care scam. As per court orders, the banks refunded a total of ₹6,16,000 to these victims.

Based on the refund orders passed by the Hon’ble Magistrate XII ACMM Court, Anusha, and the efforts of the cybercrime teams, the respective banks refunded the amount to the victim’s accounts.

Public Advisory:

The Cyber Crime Unit advises the public to remain cautious of threats made via video calls from individuals claiming to be from government agencies such as the CBI, RBI, ED, Customs, or others. These organizations do not make such calls or demand money for resolutions.

Additionally, the unit warns against fraudulent investment opportunities advertised on platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, X, Instagram, and Facebook. These scams often promise high returns with minimal risk. Always consult a SEBI-approved platform or a registered financial advisor before investing.

Victims of cybercrimes should report incidents immediately by calling 1930 or visiting cybercrime.gov.in. Prompt reporting can help recover part of the stolen funds.