The CBI, in collaboration with the FBI and INTERPOL, has dismantled a transnational cyber-enabled financial crime network under Operation CHAKRA-III. Raids across Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida led to the seizure of significant evidence and the arrest of 43 individuals. The investigation revealed extensive cyber fraud operations targeting victims worldwide, with proceeds funneled to Hong Kong.

New Delhi – In a significant breakthrough, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has successfully dismantled a sophisticated cyber-enabled financial crime network under Operation CHAKRA-III. This international operation, running since 2022, involved cooperation with the FBI (USA) and INTERPOL.

The CBI’s International Operations Division registered case RC2312024S0007 on 22 July 2024, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. The case encompasses offenses such as criminal conspiracy, forgery, and cyber fraud.

Searches were conducted at seven locations across Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida. These raids uncovered a vast network of cyber-enabled financial crimes operated from a call center in DLF Cyber City, Gurugram.

During the searches, CBI teams intercepted live cyber criminal operations and collected substantial incriminating evidence. This includes 130 computer hard disks, 65 mobile phones, 5 laptops, various incriminating documents, financial transaction details, call recordings, victim details, and transcripts. The investigation revealed that the criminals impersonated legitimate entities to induce victims into downloading malicious software, ultimately extorting money for system restoration.

The financial proceeds of these crimes were funneled through multiple countries, with significant transactions traced to Hong Kong.

The operation uncovered that the network heavily relied on ‘tech support’ fraud schemes. This form of fraud involves scammers creating fake error messages that appear on victims’ computers via pop-up windows. These messages often mimic legitimate system warnings, urging victims to call a provided support number. Once the victim calls, scammers pose as tech support agents, convincing them to grant remote access to their computers or to pay for unnecessary services. This method preys on fear and confusion, making victims believe their computers are severely compromised when, in reality, they are not​

The CBI coordinated closely with the FBI and other international law enforcement agencies through INTERPOL. This collaborative effort has led to the arrest of 43 individuals so far, with further investigations underway.