#cybercrimenagpur

[cybercrime-blogs]

Gurgaon Police Crack Down on Electricity Bill Scam: Four Arrested in Rs 1 Lakh Fraud

In a recent breakthrough, Gurgaon police successfully apprehended four suspects involved in a sophisticated electricity bill scam that swindled a woman out of Rs 1 lakh. The incident came to light when the victim reported an unauthorized withdrawal from her bank account after attempting to clear her electricity bill.

Complaint and Police Response:

On June 3, the victim filed a complaint at the Sector 14 police station, prompting an immediate response from the Gurgaon police. The unauthorized withdrawal triggered a thorough investigation, leading to the registration of a case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Also Read: Kashmiri Brother-in-Law could not show Kamal, and pressure on Nagpur police failed

Modus Operandi Revealed:

The investigation unveiled a cunning modus operandi orchestrated by a suspect named Ajay and his associates. The scammers sent threatening messages, claiming that failure to settle electricity bills would result in disconnection. Subsequently, they sent payment links to the victims. Once clicked, the perpetrators hacked into bank accounts, siphoning off money.

Arrests and Suspects' Identities:

A specialized police team, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Vipin Ahlawat, successfully apprehended the suspects in Palam Vihar. The arrested individuals include Pankaj and Mangilal from Munasri Hanuman Garh, Rajasthan, Sombeer from Gadhi village, Hisar district, and Ajay from Niwana village, Hisar.

Also Read: Pune Couple's Organized Cyber Blackmailing Scandal Uncovered

Transaction Details Unveiled:

During the interrogation, it was revealed that the defrauded amount was transferred to Pankaj's bank account, then sent to Mangilal. Sombeer, employed at a petrol pump, received the money, charging a 1.5% commission, before forwarding the remaining sum to Ajay. The investigation is ongoing to delve into the full extent of the allegations.

Insight into Cyber Criminal Techniques:

Sub-Inspector Sachin Kumar from the Cyber West police station highlighted the evolving complexities of cybercrime. He emphasized that some cybercriminals masquerade as customer care representatives or electricity department employees to gain trust and deceive victims. Kumar explained how unsuspecting individuals are coerced into clicking on links, leading to the download of screen-sharing apps and subsequently leaking UPI IDs during payment transactions.

Police Advisory and Vigilance:

In light of this incident, the police are actively urging citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent tactics employed by cybercriminals. They emphasize the importance of reporting any suspicious activities to prevent falling victim to cyber scams.

Suggestions for Further Reading:

Consider including a section on cybersecurity best practices and tips to avoid falling prey to such scams. This could include information on recognizing phishing attempts, securing personal information online, and staying informed about prevalent cyber threats.

Source: https://www.the420.in/gurgaon-police-electricity-bill-scam-arrested/

[cybercrime-blogs]

India Prepares to Deploy Trained ‘Cyber Commandos’ for Cyber Defence

New Delhi: In response to the growing sophistication of cyber threats, the Indian government is proactively taking steps to enhance its cybersecurity efforts. A dedicated unit of 'cyber commandos' is being assembled, drawing talent from police forces across the states, Union Territories, and central police organizations. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recently issued a directive to all states and UTs, urging them to identify ten suitable candidates to join this specialized unit.

Prime Minister's Vision for an Advanced Cybersecurity Framework

The concept of a 'cyber commando' wing was first introduced earlier this year during the DGPs/IGPs Conference, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheading its establishment. The vision behind this initiative is to strengthen India's cyber defense capabilities, protect information technology networks, and conduct thorough investigations in the realm of cyberspace.

Also Read: Pune Couple's Organized Cyber Blackmailing Scandal Uncovered

Bolstering the Nation's Cyber Defense

The MHA's recent communication, obtained by The420, underscores the pivotal role of the proposed specialized wing. It highlights that the cyber commando wing will serve as a linchpin in countering cyber threats, safeguarding IT networks, and conducting cyber investigations. The selection process for these commandos will be rigorous, based on their proficiency and aptitude in IT security and digital forensics.

A Holistic Training Program

The envisioned cyber commando wing will become an integral part of police organizations, composed of highly skilled and well-equipped personnel drawn from various states, UTs, and central police organizations. The MHA's directive indicates that these 'cyber commandos' will undergo specialized residential training to ensure their readiness to respond effectively to cyber threats and incidents. This training program will be conducted in collaboration with esteemed institutions and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (14C) under the MHA's purview.

Empowering the Cyber Commandos

The selected commandos will be equipped with extensive training and the necessary tools to effectively combat and counter cyber threats. They will bear the crucial responsibility of safeguarding the nation's critical cyber infrastructure. While primarily serving their parent organizations, these 'cyber commandos' may be called upon for national duties during urgent situations.

In light of this strategic initiative, the MHA has called upon all police organizations to identify a minimum of ten candidates possessing fundamental knowledge of computer networks and operating systems. The aim is to establish a pool of highly adept individuals who can make valuable contributions to the cyber commando wing.

This strategic move underscores India's unwavering commitment to fortify its cybersecurity measures, aligning with the ever-evolving cyber landscape. We invite you to stay tuned for further updates on the development and deployment of the cyber commando wing, which is poised to make a significant impact on the nation's cybersecurity posture. India is taking bold steps to secure its digital future, and the cyber commando unit is a testament to its dedication to this cause.

The Genesis of the Cyber Commando Unit

The genesis of the 'cyber commando' unit can be traced back to the DGPs/IGPs Conference, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi put forth the vision of a specialized cybersecurity unit. Recognizing the ever-increasing complexity of cyber threats and the need for a robust defense, the Prime Minister championed the establishment of this innovative wing.

Also Read: Cyber blackmailing case: Shatrughan's bail plea rejected

Strengthening National Cybersecurity

The primary objective of this unit is to enhance India's cybersecurity capabilities significantly. In an age where information technology and digital networks play a pivotal role in everyday life, securing these assets is of paramount importance. The cyber commando unit will play a pivotal role in countering cyber threats, defending IT networks, and conducting comprehensive cyber investigations.

Identifying the Right Talent

The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a directive to all states and Union Territories, urging them to identify ten suitable candidates for this specialized unit. The selection process will be stringent, with a focus on proficiency and aptitude in IT security and digital forensics. These cyber commandos will be the front line of defense against cyber adversaries, and their training and skill set will be critical in securing the nation's digital infrastructure.

Comprehensive Training Program

The cyber commando unit will be an integral part of various police organizations across the country. To ensure they are well-prepared to handle cyber threats effectively, these selected commandos will undergo specialized residential training. This training will be conducted in collaboration with top-tier institutions and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (14C), operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Equipping for the Future

To equip the cyber commandos for their critical role, they will receive extensive training and access to cutting-edge tools and technologies. Their responsibilities will extend to safeguarding the nation's vital cyber infrastructure, ensuring that it remains resilient in the face of evolving threats. While these 'cyber commandos' will primarily serve their parent organizations, they will also be on standby for national duties during emergency situations.

Also Read: Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

Calling upon the Talented

In a bid to assemble a pool of highly skilled individuals for this specialized unit, the Ministry of Home Affairs has called upon all police organizations to identify a minimum of ten candidates who possess a foundational knowledge of computer networks and operating systems. This ensures that the cyber commando unit is staffed with individuals who have a solid understanding of the technological landscape they will be defending.

A Bold Step in Cybersecurity

The establishment of the cyber commando unit represents a bold step in India's commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity posture. In a world where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, the nation is proactively taking measures to protect its digital assets. This strategic move demonstrates India's dedication to staying ahead of the evolving cyber landscape.

Stay Informed

We invite you to stay informed about the development and deployment of the cyber commando unit. As the unit takes shape and begins its operations, we will continue to provide updates on how it is bolstering the nation's cybersecurity defenses. India is resolute in its mission to safeguard its digital future, and the cyber commando unit is a significant milestone in this journey. Together, we can fortify our digital borders and ensure a secure cyber environment for all.

Source: https://www.the420.in/ministry-home-affairs-seeks-cyber-commandos/

[cybercrime-blogs]

Cracking Down on Telecom Fraud: SIM Dealers Now Require Mandatory Police Verification and KYC

NEW DELHI: In a resolute endeavor to clamp down on fraudulent practices related to mobile SIM cards, the Narendra Modi government has instituted fresh regulations aimed at reinforcing security measures. These regulations mandate police verification for SIM card dealers and impose a prohibition on bulk connections. The strategic shift is part of a comprehensive initiative to bolster cybersecurity and curtail the misuse of mobile numbers tethered to falsified documentation.

Compulsory Police and Biometric Authentication for SIM Dealers

The announcement of these novel measures was made by Union Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during a press briefing on Thursday. The revamped guidelines delineate that all aspiring mobile SIM card dealers must undergo mandatory police verification and biometric authentication before being granted authorization. Additionally, the mandate encompasses the necessity for registration among all point-of-sale dealers, thereby ensuring a more stringent screening process for those engaged in the distribution of SIM cards.

Minister Vaishnaw underscored the severity of consequences for any infringement of these regulations, stating that a substantial penalty of ₹10 lakh (approximately $13,500) will be levied upon individuals or entities found contravening these norms. This stringent approach is intended to serve as a deterrent against any attempts to circumvent the verification procedures or indulge in deceptive activities.

Also Read: Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

In essence, this assertive step heralds a new era of vigilance in the realm of mobile SIM card operations, underscoring the government's unwavering commitment to fortifying security and upholding the integrity of mobile communication systems.

Crackdown on Illicit Linkages

The government's initiative, the Sanchar Saathi portal, has demonstrated its effectiveness in identifying and nullifying connections that were illicitly acquired. Since its launch, an astounding 5.2 million connections have been deactivated. Furthermore, the government has taken stringent action by blacklisting 67,000 dealers implicated in the unauthorized dissemination of mobile SIM cards.

The campaign against fraudulent endeavors transcends deactivation and blacklisting. The government has taken legal action by filing 300 First Information Reports (FIRs) against SIM card dealers since May 2023, marking a resolute stance against those seeking to undermine the newly established regulations.

Termination of Bulk Connections

Minister Vaishnaw accentuated a significant transformation in the provision of SIM cards. In the past, the procurement of SIM cards in bulk was permitted, a practice susceptible to misuse for fraudulent purposes. Addressing this concern, the government has decided to halt the offering of bulk connections. Instead, a novel concept of business connections will be introduced, poised to grant greater control over the distribution process and thwart deceitful communication attempts.

Also Read: Kashmiri Brother-in-Law could not show Kamal, and pressure on Nagpur police failed

Punjab Police's Vigilant Endeavors

The necessity for these stringent protocols was vividly emphasized by a recent incident within Punjab. Collaborating with the Department of Telecom, Punjab Police's Internal Security wing orchestrated a robust crackdown on distributors and agents implicated in dispensing SIM cards through counterfeit identities. A staggering count of 180,000 SIM cards, purportedly activated through false credentials, were rendered inoperable, and the operation led to the apprehension of 17 individuals.

The Punjab Police disclosed that a notable array of cybercrimes and activities labeled as 'anti-national' were facilitated through mobile numbers linked to fabricated documents, thereby amplifying the urgency for elevated verification procedures.

In tandem, the Narendra Modi government's directive mandating police verification for SIM dealers and discontinuing bulk connections stands as a testament to their dedication in bolstering cybersecurity and curbing deceptive practices. Through the implementation of more stringent protocols for the acquisition and distribution of mobile SIM cards, the government envisions a fortified telecommunications milieu, deterring any proclivity towards unauthorized or criminal conduct. In an ever-evolving digital landscape, these endeavors are pivotal in safeguarding the authenticity of mobile communications and championing the well-being of both citizens and enterprises.

Source: https://www.the420.in/government-mandates-police-verification-kyc-sim-dealers/

[cybercrime-blogs]

Pune Couple's Organized Cyber Blackmailing Scandal Uncovered

In the state's sensational cyber black mailing case registered at Pratap Nagar police station, the court on Monday extended the police custody of the three accused arrested from Pune for one more day, including the main accused Pune resident Shatrughan Singh Tangral, his wife Manjusha and Rahul Satyendranath Jha. All three were arrested from Pune. After the arrest, the court gave them a 4-day PCR which ended on Monday.  On Monday, the Pratap Nagar police presented all three in the court, where the police sought more time from the court for questioning, in such a situation, the court extended the police custody of the three accused by one day.

Fake bill sent by e-mail

Shatrughan and Manjusha used to play the game of e-mail in a fun way to make fake bills of about Rs 8.76 crores and fake bills used to manipulate crores. According to the information received, Shatrughan used to send bills from Excellon's official email ID shatru@excellonsoft.com to his personal ID shatrusingh@hotmail.com. Then from here he used to send this bill to Manjusha. After this, Manjusha used to send this bill back to Excellon on behalf of BizCloud. In this way, after the payment of the bill, the money used to reach in the pockets of Shatrughan and Manjusha.

Also Read: Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

Email from Excellon’s ID to Traya Team

It has been learned that this whole scandal of cyber blackmailing has been done in a very organized manner. Being an employee of Excellon, Shatrughan was given an email ID by the company. Due to his supremacy, Shatrughan had also given jobs to his family members in the company. Shatrughan's brother Virendra Singh Tangral and his wife Ritu Jain are among the accused.

Ritu had received the email id rituj@excellonsoft.com from Excellon. After Bizcloud, Ritu had sent the names of the team of another company Trayasoft to Shatrughan with this ID. The special thing is that till this time Trayasoft had not been registered.

This email was done on January 28, 2019, while Triasoft's domain was registered on March 4, 2020 and the company's Pune address on June 4, 2020. Shatrughan and Manjusha's names were found to be directors in both Bizcloud and Triasoft companies. Apart from this, the names of the rest of the employees also looked exactly the same in both the companies. This shows that Triasoft was registered as a dummy company of BizCloud.

Conclusion:

The blog discusses the cyber blackmailing scandal where a couple from Pune, India, used fake bills and dummy companies to manipulate millions. The main accused, Shatrughan Singh Tangral, along with his wife and another accomplice, were arrested and their police custody was extended by one more day. The couple used a game of e-mail to create fake bills and manipulate crores of rupees. The scandal was carried out in an organized manner, with the accused registering a dummy company to carry out their illegal activities. The conclusion of the blog is that the accused were involved in a sophisticated cyber blackmailing operation, and their arrest is a step towards bringing them to justice.

[cybercrime-blogs]

Cyber blackmailing case: Shatrughan's bail plea rejected

The case of theft and blackmailing involving Shatrughan Singh Tangral, his wife Manjusha, and Rahul, along with some members of Tangral's family and employees of his company, Bizcloud, has come to light. The accused were arrested for stealing source code and data of other companies and blackmailing them while working in Tambi's company. During the hearing, the defense argued that the FIR filed against Shatrughan was wrong and tainted with malicious intent. They claimed that he was a partner in Bizcloud, and the allegations leveled in the FIR were baseless. The defense also argued that the accused should get bail due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, the prosecution strongly opposed the bail, claiming that the accused, especially Shatrughan, was a seasoned cyber expert who could tamper with the evidence if released on bail. The defense argued that Shatrughan was a star employee of Exelon Software Private Limited and that Bizcloud was outsourced by Tambi's company in 2015. They questioned why Tambi had remained silent for so many years and argued that there was no direct evidence against the accused.

Also Read: Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

The prosecution rebutted these arguments, claiming that the accused had stolen data from Tambi's company, and there was a possibility of disturbances if they were released on bail. After hearing both sides, the court refused to grant bail to Shatrughan.

The case highlights the growing problem of cybercrime and the need for stricter laws to deter such crimes. The accused were alleged to have stolen source code and data of other companies and then used it to blackmail them. This not only harms the companies but also puts the confidential data of millions of customers at risk.

In such cases, it is essential to have strong evidence against the accused to ensure that justice is served. The defense argued that there was no direct evidence against the accused, but the prosecution claimed that the stolen data was evidence enough to prove their guilt.

Also Read: Kashmiri Brother-in-Law could not show Kamal, and pressure on Nagpur police failed

It is also crucial to ensure that the accused cannot tamper with the evidence if released on bail. In this case, the prosecution argued that Shatrughan was a seasoned cyber expert who could easily tamper with the technical evidence. Hence, the court refused to grant him bail.

In conclusion, cybercrime is a growing problem that needs to be tackled with stricter laws and better enforcement. It is essential to ensure that the accused cannot tamper with the evidence and that justice is served in such cases. The court's decision not to grant bail to Shatrughan highlights the seriousness of the crime and the need for a fair trial.

[cybercrime-blogs]

The Growing Threat of Cybercrime and the Need for Next-Gen Online Security Tools

In today's digital age, cybercrime has become a significant concern for individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide. With the rapid advancements in technology, cybercriminals are finding new and sophisticated ways to breach security systems and steal sensitive information.

Did you know that damages caused by cybercrime are expected to cross $10 trillion by 2025? This staggering figure highlights the need for immediate action to prevent cybercrime from becoming even more widespread and devastating.

Moreover, the forthcoming 2023 Global Risk Report will show that deepening geopolitical tensions have increased the prevalence of advanced persistent threats (APTs), which are becoming as sophisticated as they are pervasive.

In response to this growing threat, many nations, corporations, and international organizations have made cybersecurity a top priority. However, despite these efforts, cybercrime continues to increase at an alarming rate.

Also Read: Thane Woman Loses Rs. 12 Lakhs in Cyber Scam on Facebook: A Reminder to Stay Vigilant Online

According to an article from the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, new technology is scaling up the reach and impact of cybercrime. Malware and ransomware attacks, in which attackers threaten to publish data or permanently block it unless a ransom is paid, have increased by over 350% and 430% respectively in 2020.

To make matters worse, next-generation online tools are being developed that can bypass even the most sophisticated antivirus programs. Living off the land (LOtL) attacks, in which attackers use legitimate software and functions to perpetrate malicious actions, accounted for almost two-thirds of all reported incidents in 2021.

These problems are compounded by a scarcity of security experts, poor reporting habits, and a lack of global agreements on how to regulate cyber threats.

It is evident that the need for next-gen online security tools has never been more pressing. These tools must be capable of identifying and neutralizing advanced persistent threats, detecting and blocking malware and ransomware attacks, and identifying and neutralizing LOtL attacks.

Furthermore, there must be a concerted effort to promote cybersecurity education and training to ensure that individuals, businesses, and governments can protect themselves from cyber threats effectively.

International rules to tackle cybercrime

The continued growth of cybercrime and its far-reaching impacts highlight the urgent need for unique international rules to tackle this menace. Such rules should be designed to mitigate and prevent cybercrime, while also promoting trust, cooperation and collaboration among nations, private and public service providers, and internet users.

These international rules should prioritize the protection of critical infrastructure and data, as well as safeguarding the privacy and security of individuals online. They should also ensure that cyber criminals are held accountable for their actions, regardless of their location, and that victims of cybercrime have access to effective legal remedies and compensation.

Furthermore, these rules should be designed to facilitate information sharing and cooperation among nations, in order to track down and dismantle criminal networks operating across borders. They should also encourage the development and deployment of effective cybersecurity technologies and best practices, and promote education and awareness campaigns to enhance cybersecurity literacy among individuals and organizations.

ALSO READ: Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

global strategies to tackle cybercrime and its perpetrators.

The diversity of actors involved in cybercrime demands a concerted global response to combat the growing threat. Governments, private industry, and civil society must come together to create unique global strategies to tackle cybercrime and its perpetrators.

These strategies should focus on strengthening international law enforcement cooperation, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and promoting greater awareness and education about cyber threats. They should also prioritize the protection of critical infrastructure and sensitive data, as well as safeguarding the privacy and security of individuals online.

Furthermore, these strategies should seek to address the root causes of cybercrime, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities. They should also target the development and deployment of effective technologies and best practices to prevent and mitigate cyber threats.

In conclusion, cybercrime poses a significant threat to the global economy, public safety, and national security. The need for international rules to tackle this problem is urgent and pressing. The international community must come together to develop and implement effective rules and norms that can prevent and mitigate the impact of cybercrime, and ensure that the benefits of the internet can be enjoyed safely and securely by all.

cybercrime is a growing threat that requires immediate attention and action. The development and implementation of next-gen online security tools, along with cybersecurity education and training, are essential to safeguarding the digital world and preventing cybercrime from becoming even more widespread and devastating. The growing threat of cybercrime demands a coordinated global response. Only through the development and implementation of unique global strategies can we effectively combat this menace and protect our economies, public safety, and national security.

Source:https://www.the420.in/why-we-need-global-rules-to-crack-down-on-cybercrime-world-economic-forum-warms-up-to-the-idea-of-online-security/

[cybercrime-blogs]

Cybercrime in Nagpur - Cyber Blackmailer Couple Arrested in Pune for Extorting Money

A sensational case of cyber black mailing and cheating has come to light in the city.  In this case registered at Pratap Nagar police station, the police have arrested 3 including the main accused IT professional husband and wife from Pune. Arrested accused includes Shatrughan Singh Tangral and his wife Manjusha along with Rahul Satyendra Jha, all three are residents of Pune. It is alleged that he stole source code and client's data from the director of a company based in Nagpur in the last 5 years and blackmailed them with rigging of about 9 crores. Police have booked a total of 12 people under various sections of cybercrime including cheating and blackmailing threats etc. Probably this is the first case of cyber blackmailing in the city.

 Loot of 9 crores in 5 years

All the three accused were produced in the court on Friday from where they were sent to police custody for 4 days. The prosecution argued that, the accused are highly educated and are tricksters. If bail is granted, the evidence may be tampered. Accepting the argument, the court granted a 4 day PCR.

Also Read: Kashmiri Brother-in-Law could not show Kamal, and pressure on Nagpur police failed

What is the case?

Vinodkumar Tambi, a resident of Civil Lines, is the Director of Excellon Software Private Limited which is situated in IT Park. Started in 1999 with the name of e-Caliber India, Tambi had appointed Shatrughan Singh on the post of Web Developer till 31st March 2020 he reached at the post of Vice President Product & Engineering . During this period, he was given of salary upto Rs 60 lakh and Rs 40 lakh shares and bonus shares from the company.

 CP got the investigation done in CBI style

 Torn by blackmailing, Tambi saw the police as the last resort. He along with his lawyer Virat Mishra met the city police commissioner Dr. Bhushan Kumar Upadhyay and narrated his entire story. CP Dr. Upadhyay took the matter seriously and asked to register a case at Rana Pratap Nagar police station. The investigation was immediately handed over to EOW DCP Shweta Khedkar. The city police quickly collected evidence on the lines of the CBI and arrested Shatrughan Manjusha and Rahul from the area of Chaturshrungi Police Station in Pune and brought them to Nagpur.

 Fake company made with wife

 Excellon’s clients includes multinational companies. Being the Vice President, the work of the company was outsourced by Shatrughan to complete the work quickly. Shatrughan's wife Manjusha has worked in big companies like Persistent and TCS. During the job, both husband and wife together formed their own company named BizCloud and outsourced company were also joined, in which two UK IT professionals were also involved.  Together, Shatrughan and Manjusha together took the advantage of Excellon’s source code, software and data took illegal advantage of clients and accounts. Through BizCloud, they caused a loss of crores to Excellon.  Blackmailed Tambi, in the beginning of the year 2019, got suspicious when Shatrughan was asked about this, he along with Manjusha and Rahul started blackmailing him in the name of source code and client data.

Source code, Software and Data stolen

 The thief leaves a trail

Worried about the confidentiality of his client's data, Tambi silently tolerated the blackmailing of Shatrughan and Manjusha and also paid the ransom amount.

Just like every thief makes some or the other mistake, similarly Tambi also got one mistake of Shatrughan.

With the help of many software and other IT experts, all the black exploits of Shatrughan, Manjusha and their other accomplices were recovered, during which they would also pay the ransom amount, so that Shatrughan and Manjusha do not suspect that evidence is being collected against him