Family Loses Rs 1.59 Lakh in Cyber Fraud
A family in Shahdol district has allegedly lost Rs 1.59 lakh while trying to book an online appointment for their son’s medical treatment. The incident highlights the growing risk of cyber fraud linked to online searches for healthcare services.
Incident in Byawari Police Station Area
Search for Doctor’s Contact Turns Costly
The case was reported under the Byawari police station limits in Shahdol. The father had taken his younger son to Nagpur for treatment of a bone-related illness. During the process, he asked his wife to look up the doctor’s contact number online to schedule an appointment.
Fraudsters Posed as Medical Staff
Call Answered by Cyber Criminals
According to a report by ETV Bharat, when the mother dialled the number found via a Google search, the call was allegedly answered by cyber fraudsters instead of hospital staff. The callers reportedly introduced themselves as members of the doctor’s team and gained her trust.
App Download Used as Trap
Pretext of Appointment Facilitation
The fraudsters allegedly instructed her to download a mobile application, claiming it was necessary to process the appointment. Believing the instructions to be genuine, she followed their directions.
Multiple Bank Transfers Executed
Rs 1.59 Lakh Withdrawn
Shortly after installing the application, money began to be withdrawn from her bank account. Two transactions of Rs 50,000 each were processed, followed by another transfer of Rs 59,000, bringing the total loss to Rs 1,59,000.
Family Calls It Major Financial Setback
Minor Verification Lapse Leads to Loss
The family described the incident as a serious financial setback, stating that the fraud occurred due to a minor lapse in verifying the authenticity of the contact details before making the call.
Complaint Filed with Police
Approach to Superintendent of Police
The couple has approached the office of the Superintendent of Police in Shahdol and submitted a written complaint at the district police headquarters, seeking recovery of the amount and action against the accused.
Cyber Cell Initiates Action
Investigation Underway
The Additional Superintendent of Police confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated that the Cyber Cell has initiated appropriate legal action. Authorities are now investigating the fraudulent transactions and attempting to trace the individuals involved.
