Product Head of Bengaluru-based MNC Loses Over Rs 51 Lakh to Cybercriminals

A product head of a Bengaluru-based MNC fell victim to cybercriminals who posed as officials from FedEx courier service and Mumbai police. The woman was placed under “digital arrest for 10 hours” and lost over Rs 51 lakh to the scammers.

The cybercriminals claimed that her details were being used to smuggle narcotics and demanded payment to clear her name. The woman, fearing legal action, complied with their demands and transferred the money to their account.

But the scam didn’t end there. The scammers also availed a Rs 50-lakh loan from ICICI bank without her approval or authentication. The woman only realized the extent of the fraud when she received a call from the bank asking for repayment of the loan.

The incident highlights the growing threat of cybercrime in India, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With more people working from home and relying on digital platforms for communication and transactions, cybercriminals have found new opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive information.

Experts recommend that individuals and businesses take steps to protect themselves from cybercrime, such as using strong passwords, keeping software up-to-date, and being cautious of suspicious emails and messages.

It is also important to report any incidents of cybercrime to the authorities, as this can help to prevent further attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

As for the woman who lost over Rs 51 lakh to the cybercriminals, she has filed a complaint with the police and is hoping to recover her money. But the incident serves as a cautionary tale for others to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from similar scams.