Cyber Crime (File)
A disturbing cybercrime case came to light in Chennai, shaking the local community. An 81-year-old retired bank officer was extorted of ₹2.27 crore by a cunning gang operating a fake digital court. The elderly man and his 78-year-old wife endured a terrifying ordeal, receiving threats via video calls that mimicked a real judicial process. This audacious scam has triggered an immediate police investigation.
The fraud began a fortnight ago with a call alleging the man was implicated in a fictitious financial scam. Fraudsters, posing as judges and court officials, conducted virtual “hearings” using video platforms, complete with forged documents and official-looking seals. Under intense pressure and fear of arrest, the victim transferred ₹2.27 crore in stages to accounts provided by the scammers. The gang’s sophisticated use of technology blurred the line between reality and deception, exploiting the couple’s vulnerability.
The elderly couple, living alone, was subjected to relentless intimidation, with the scammers monitoring their every move through video. The man’s health deteriorated as he complied, believing he had no choice. His daughter, alerted by his distressed state, reported the incident to the Chennai Cyber Crime Unit. Police have frozen the linked bank accounts and are tracing the money trail, suspecting an interstate or international syndicate.
The news has left Chennai residents reeling, with neighbors expressing outrage over the targeting of the elderly. . Authorities are planning awareness campaigns to educate seniors about cyber threats, emphasizing not to share financial details under duress.
As investigations continue past 3:21 PM IST, the focus is on recovering the lost funds and bringing the perpetrators to justice. This case highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect vulnerable citizens from such harrowing exploits.
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