Kothagudem: In yet another alarming case of cyber fraud, a Bhadrachalam-based ophthalmologist became the victim of a digital extortion attempt involving threats, impersonation, and false criminal allegations. The cybercriminals used video calls to intimidate the doctor and falsely accused him of being involved in multiple criminal cases.
Fake Charges, Digital Arrest Threats and Bengaluru Police Hoax
According to Telangana Today, the incident unfolded on Thursday, when the doctor, identified as Dr. Rao, received a series of video calls from unknown individuals posing as law enforcement officials. The scammers falsely claimed that 17 criminal cases had been registered against him in Bengaluru and alleged that a second mobile number had been fraudulently activated using his Aadhaar credentials.
The criminals then threatened Dr. Rao with a “digital arrest” and instructed him to appear in person at a police station in Bengaluru—an increasingly common tactic being used to intimidate victims and extort money under psychological pressure.
Doctor Files Complaint; Police Begin Investigation
Fearing for his reputation, medical license, and personal safety, Dr. Rao promptly approached the Kothagudem police and filed a formal complaint. Law enforcement officials have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the cyber fraud attempt.
Doctors Emerging as Frequent Targets of Cyber Scams
This incident adds to a growing trend of cybercriminals targeting medical professionals, who are often vulnerable due to their demanding schedules and professional reputations. Fraudsters have been exploiting this by using impersonation and fear-based tactics.
Related Incidents: Delhi and Secunderabad Doctors Also Defrauded
This case comes close on the heels of similar incidents:
- In Delhi, a doctor was reportedly conned of Rs 15 lakh through a nearly identical “digital arrest” scam.
- In Secunderabad, another doctor recently lost Rs 53 lakh in a fraudulent online trading scam, where he was promised massive returns. The scam spanned nearly a month and involved 18 bank transfers, all made under false assurances of investment profits.
Authorities Urge Public Vigilance
Cybercrime experts and police have reiterated calls for public awareness and caution, especially regarding unsolicited calls involving personal data, Aadhaar details, or legal threats. Officials advise individuals to verify any legal claims directly with local police stations and avoid engaging with unknown callers on video platforms.
The Kothagudem police have urged residents to report similar incidents immediately and not to share sensitive information online or act under pressure from unidentified sources.
