A retired Air Force doctor in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, was defrauded of approximately ₹25 million over 25 days through a cyber scam that involved threats of legal action and continuous pressure via video calls.
In Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, a shocking case of cyber fraud has emerged involving a 90-year-old retired Air Force doctor who was extorted for around ₹25 million. According to the complaint, the fraud began on January 25 when the doctor received a phone call from someone claiming to be associated with an investigative agency. This individual alleged that the doctor’s documents had been linked to illegal activities, threatening him with arrest and legal consequences if he did not comply.
The scammers maintained constant communication with the doctor, utilizing video calls to create a false sense of urgency and legitimacy. By leveraging the pretense of 'online monitoring', they convinced him that he was required to follow specific procedures related to a legitimate investigation. Attempting to ensure his compliance, they pressured him not to inform his family by citing confidentiality and potential legal repercussions, isolating him further in the process.
Over a span of 25 days, the scammers exploited the doctor’s age and loneliness, systematically creating psychological pressure until he transferred large sums of money into various bank accounts. It was only when the bank raised an alert that the magnitude of the fraud came to light. This incident highlights the vulnerability of senior citizens to sophisticated cyber scams and raises concerns about the effectiveness of current preventive measures.
