Cybercriminals Run Amok: Crores Vanish, Authorities Struggle to Contain Digital Heist
BK Singh
PRAYAGRAJ: Cybercrime in Prayagraj has reached alarming new heights, leaving ordinary citizens helpless and crores of rupees disappearing into the hands of unscrupulous criminals. From unsuspecting retirees to young professionals, no one seems safe from the relentless schemes of online fraudsters who exploit trust with surgical precision.
Six Lakh Lost in a Click
Manish Kumar Gupta of Gauhania, Ghoorpur, fell prey to a scam that wiped ₹6.35 lakh off his account. The scheme began with a seemingly innocent WhatsApp message from an unknown number, promising high returns on investments.
The message included a Telegram link to a “group” where he was persuaded to download an app and make deposits under the guise of legitimate investment.
“The cybercriminals are extremely skilled at manipulating trust,” said a police official, noting that they are tracing the fraudsters through mobile numbers and bank accounts. “But victims often realize the loss only after it’s too late.”
Retired Army Officer Duped Out of ₹52.60 Lakh
In a case that highlights the audacity of these criminals, retired Subedar Major Rajendra Prasad Dwivedi of Premnagar, Naini, lost ₹52.60 lakh after being promised huge profits by cyber scammers. Claiming that he could earn ₹1.32 crore, the fraudsters pressured him to transfer money to multiple bank accounts over six weeks.
According to the FIR, the retired soldier discovered “Premji Invest X” online. He was contacted by Tanvi Deshpande, the group admin, who lured him with WhatsApp links and promises of instant wealth. Between July 23 and September 2, Major Dwivedi transferred ₹52.60 lakh.
The scammers further enticed him with a 300% profit on a Vikram Solar Private Limited IPO. When he attempted to withdraw ₹55 lakh, he was asked to deposit ₹13.3 lakh as a “service charge,” and on refusal, his remaining funds were frozen.
Cyber police chief Anil Verma confirmed that an FIR has been lodged, and investigations are underway.
A Daily Nightmare for the Naive
Experts warn that cyber fraudsters are now operating with near impunity, exploiting loopholes, digital anonymity, and the gullibility of investors.
“These criminals have no boundaries,” said a cybercrime analyst. “They prey on the hard-earned savings of ordinary citizens, leaving families devastated and authorities scrambling for solutions.”
From WhatsApp links to fake investment portals, these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with victims losing their savings almost daily. Even as police pursue leads, the criminals continue their relentless assault, unshaken and unafraid.
The Harsh Reality: Cybercrime has no moral compass, and in the digital age, vigilance alone may not be enough to protect one’s wealth. The clock is ticking, and every day, more crores vanish into the virtual abyss, leaving helpless victims and a frustrated police force in their wake.
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