It all began when the couple received a call from someone claiming to be from TRAI.
The caller falsely accused them of being involved in a financial fraud case that was being investigated by the CBI.
They threatened to freeze their bank accounts and seize their property.
Imagine being told that you are under digital arrest and that your every move is being watched. That’s exactly what happened to a retired couple from Dum Dum, Kolkata, who lost Rs 52 lakh to fraudsters in a scam. Keep reading to know how the scam unfolded and how you can avoid falling for such frauds.
Rathindra Nath Biswas, a retired government officer, and his wife Chaitali, a former researcher, were targeted by fraudsters posing as officials from the CBI and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). It all began in December when the couple received a call from someone claiming to be from TRAI. The caller falsely accused them of being involved in a financial fraud case that was being investigated by the CBI.
The scammers sent them a fake Supreme Court order featuring a photo of a former Chief Justice of India. They threatened to freeze their bank accounts and seize their property. To make their threats seem more real, they claimed to have a voice recording that could be used against the couple in court.
Also read: Trader loses over Rs 2 lakh in part-time job scam involving watermelon purchases
The fraudsters forced the couple to stay under video surveillance for two months, even while using the washroom. They were forbidden from leaving their house without permission, reports TOI. Living under immense psychological pressure, the couple ended up transferring Rs 52 lakh in six installments, using up their savings, mutual funds, and fixed deposits.
The scammers claimed that a CBI raid at businessman Naresh Goyal’s house had uncovered 247 fake ID cards, including one with their names. They demanded the couple deposit the money into a fake “suspense account” linked to the court. The fraudsters even convinced them to send photos of their Aadhaar cards.
After losing all their money, the couple realised they had been tricked. Initially, they were too scared to go to the police. A family friend encouraged them to file a complaint, but Dum Dum police allegedly ignored them at first. An FIR was finally registered on February 23.
To help the investigation, Chaitali even sketched a portrait of one of the fraudsters seen during video calls.
Also read: Retired teacher loses Rs 96 lakh in online insurance scam: Here’s what happened
How to avoid such scams
- Verify caller identities: Government agencies never demand money over calls.
- Never share personal details: Avoid sending Aadhaar, PAN, or bank details online.
- Look for official notices: Courts and law enforcement do not send orders via WhatsApp.
- Report suspicious activity: If you receive a threatening call, inform the police immediately.
- Stay cautious: Scammers use fear tactics; do not fall for them.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
