In a distressing case highlighting the dangers of online financial transactions, a 49-year-old man working for the Indian Air Force fell victim to cyber fraud, losing Rs 43,000. The incident unfolded when K Elliah Suresh, stationed at Headquarters Training Command, attempted to resolve a payment issue after a shopping trip to the air force canteen on October 26.
Suresh had successfully completed his shopping, totaling Rs 1,918, and opted to pay through the PhonePe app by scanning a QR code. Although the amount was deducted from his bank account, the canteen in-charge informed him that the payment had not been credited. Seeking redress, Suresh looked for customer support and, unable to find assistance within the app, called a helpline number he discovered online, 8068727374.
Upon calling, he was greeted by someone who claimed to be a customer care executive from the digital payment application, who promised to help Suresh recover his lost funds. The executive initiated a WhatsApp video call from a different number and instructed Suresh to download a remote desktop access application. Trustingly, Suresh complied with the directions, ultimately sharing a verification code received on his phone.
The fraudster took control of Suresh’s device and sent an APK file link, convincing Suresh to click on it. Following further instructions, the scammer directed Suresh to open another digital payment application, Google Pay, from which a staggering Rs 43,010 was siphoned off. Suresh was alerted to the transaction and quickly realized that his account had been drained.
In the aftermath, he contacted the cyber helpline at 1930 and subsequently filed a complaint with local police. The investigation revealed that the funds had been transferred to an account associated with a digital payment bank. Authorities have since registered a case under the Information Technology Act and BNS 318, which relates to cheating.
This incident is not an isolated case. Reports from social media users on platforms like X and LinkedIn reveal that the number 8068727374 has been linked to various fraudulent schemes. Victims have reported receiving calls from individuals impersonating customer service representatives of different digital payment applications, where they were manipulated into revealing personal information or transferring funds. Additionally, these scammers often pose as bank executives, claiming to help users redeem unclaimed points, and resort to abusive language when their victims refuse to comply.
The rise in such scams serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance with digital transactions and authentication of any customer service contacts before sharing sensitive information. Authorities continue to urge the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activities to prevent further incidents.
