HIGHLIGHTS

The couple received a call from someone falsely claiming to be from TRAI.

The caller accused them of involvement in a financial fraud under investigation by the CBI.

They threatened to freeze the couple’s bank accounts and seize their property.

Imagine receiving a warning that your every action is being monitored, effectively placing you under a digital arrest. This unsettling reality became true for a retired couple in Dum Dum, Kolkata, who tragically lost a staggering Rs 52 lakh to cunning fraudsters. This article explores the elaborate scam that ensnared them and offers important tips on how you can evade falling victim to similar fraudulent schemes.

Rathindra Nath Biswas, a retired government official, along with his wife Chaitali, a former researcher, found themselves the targets of impersonators claiming to be from authoritative bodies such as the CBI and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). It all commenced in December when the unsuspecting couple received an alarming call from an individual posing as a TRAI representative. This caller made outrageous allegations, falsely implicating the couple in a financial fraud investigation being conducted by the CBI.

To enhance their intimidation tactics, the scammers produced a fabricated Supreme Court order adorned with a photograph of a former Chief Justice of India. They went as far as threatening to freeze the couple’s bank accounts and confiscate their assets. To further their deceit, the fraudsters asserted they possessed a voice recording that could be used against the couple in court, intensifying the sense of urgency and fear.

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The fraudsters psychologically manipulated the couple, enforcing unreasonable restrictions that forced them to remain under constant video surveillance for approximately two months—even during private moments like using the restroom. They were not allowed to leave their home without explicit permission, according to reports by TOI. Under relentless psychological torment, Rathindra and Chaitali ultimately transferred a massive Rs 52 lakh in six separate installments, depleting all their savings, including mutual funds and fixed deposits.

With cunning precision, the scammers concocted a story suggesting that a CBI raid at the residence of businessman Naresh Goyal had unearthed 247 counterfeit identification cards, one of which bore their names. They insisted the couple deposit the sum into a fraudulent “suspense account” purportedly connected to the court. To elevate their confidence, the fraudsters manipulated the victims into sending photos of their Aadhaar cards, further compromising their personal information.

Once they realized they had been duped and lost all their wealth, the couple initially hesitated to approach law enforcement due to fear. It was only upon the encouragement of a family friend that they decided to file a complaint. Unfortunately, their initial attempts were allegedly brushed aside by the Dum Dum police. An FIR was eventually registered on February 23.

In a bid to assist investigators, Chaitali even sketched a portrait of one of the perpetrators she had encountered during the video calls.

Read more: Retired teacher loses Rs 96 lakh in online insurance scam: Here’s what happened

How to steer clear of such scams

• Verify caller identities: Be aware that government agencies never demand money through phone calls.
• Never share personal details: Avoid transmitting your Aadhaar number, PAN, or banking information online.
• Look for official notices: Remember that courts and law enforcement do not communicate orders via WhatsApp.
• Report suspicious activity: If you receive a threatening phone call, report it to the police without delay.
• Stay vigilant: Fraudsters often exploit fear; do not succumb to these tactics.