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Visionary Vigilance: Cybersecurity Weekly Digest – Episode 19


Welcome to
Episode 19 of Visionary Vigilance, your trusted source for the latest cybersecurity updates. This week, we spotlight high-profile cyber fraud cases, AI-powered security interventions, dark web activity, and global efforts to counter cyber threats. Let’s dive in! 🌍🔐

🔴 National Cybersecurity Updates & Crime Crackdowns


1. Four Arrested in Cyber Fraud Case 🚨💰


A major cyber fraud operation was dismantled in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, leading to the arrest of four suspects who scammed victims through fake Telegram investment groups. The accused—Moin Ahmed, Atiq Ahmed, Wasim Ansari, and Hamid Raja—promised high returns via fraudulent stock trading schemes. 📉


One of the victims, Harpreet Singh, lost ₹23 lakh after being deceived by promises of daily 20% returns. The suspects used fake bank accounts and cryptocurrency transfers to launder the stolen money. Police recovered several mobile phones, SIM cards, and transaction records linked to the fraud. Authorities urge citizens to verify online investment platforms before committing funds. 🚔


📖 Read More


2. Keralites Lose ₹1,021 Crore to Cyber Fraud in 3 Years 📉💸


In a shocking revelation, cyber fraud losses in Kerala have reached a staggering ₹1,021 crore between 2022-2024. Over 41,426 cyber complaints were registered in the state last year, with districts like Ernakulam (₹174 crore) and Thiruvananthapuram (₹114 crore) hit hardest. 🏦


The primary culprits? Phishing scams, fraudulent loan apps, and investment frauds. Cyber police froze 76,000 fraudulent transactions, recovering ₹107 crore in 2024. While efforts to curb cybercrime continue, the public is urged to exercise extreme caution while transacting online. 🚨


📖 Read More


3. Teen Loses ₹16 Lakh in Fake Investment Scam in Ludhiana 📱💸


A Ludhiana-based 18-year-old lost ₹16 lakh in an investment scam operated via WhatsApp trading groups. The fraudsters convinced the victim to invest in fake stock market schemes, promising unrealistic returns.


When the victim tried to withdraw funds, the scammers demanded additional “processing fees.” Realizing he had been conned, he approached Ludhiana Cyber Crime Police, who are tracking the perpetrators using bank transaction records and IP addresses.


Citizens are advised to be cautious of “too-good-to-be-true” investment schemes and verify trading platforms before investing. 🕵️‍♂️


📖 Read More


4. Noida Family Loses ₹1.10 Crore in ‘Digital Arrest’ Scam 🚔💀


A Noida-based family fell victim to a digital arrest scam, losing ₹1.10 crore after being blackmailed by fraudsters posing as CBI officials. The scammers falsely accused the family of money laundering and coerced them into transferring money under threat of immediate arrest.


The Noida Cyber Cell is now investigating the case, urging citizens never to transfer funds based on coercive threats. 🚨


📖 Read More


5. Govt to Use AI to Track Mule Accounts in Cyber Crackdown 🤖📊


Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the Indian government will leverage AI to track mule accounts—fraudulent bank accounts used by cybercriminals to transfer stolen funds.


Key developments:

✔️ 3,266 fraudulent website links and 805 malicious apps blocked

✔️ AI will monitor and disable suspicious accounts in real-time

✔️ ₹2,038 crore in fraudulent transactions prevented


📖 Read More


6. Cyber Fraudsters Target Travellers via Fake Hotel Booking Sites 🏨⚠️


Scammers are targeting travelers looking for hotel bookings online, using fake websites to steal money from unsuspecting victims. Victims reported making advance payments, only to realize upon arrival that no reservations existed.


Police urge travelers to book hotels through official websites only and be wary of unverified listings on Google or social media ads.


📖 Read More


7. 11-Day ‘Cyber Mela’ Raises Cybercrime Awareness 📢🛡️


An 11-day Cyber Mela in Indore focused on educating citizens about cyber fraud prevention. The event included:

✔️ AI-powered cybersecurity solutions 🔍

✔️ Live demonstrations of online scams 📊

✔️ Workshops on digital hygiene 🖥️


📖 Read More


8. Cyber Fraudster Dupes Rs 25 Lakh, Arrested in Telangana 💰🚨


A 33-year-old cybercriminal, Cheruku Naveen, was apprehended in Telangana for running 87 online fraud operations, including fake investment scams and part-time job schemes. His latest victim lost Rs 25.36 lakh through a deceptive Google Maps review task, which later led him to an investment scam.


The fraudster gained trust by depositing small amounts initially but later blocked withdrawals and demanded more money for “processing fees.” The Telangana Cyber Crime Cell warns citizens to be cautious of too-good-to-be-true online job offers.


🔗 Read more


9. Noida Cyber Police Arrest Scammer for Cheating Man of Rs 55 Lakh 🏦🚔


A 45-year-old scammer, Satish, was caught in Noida for conning multiple victims in fake online investment schemes. His latest fraud targeted a businessman, extracting Rs 55 lakh via WhatsApp-based deception.


Authorities revealed that at least six complaints against Satish were registered across different states. Multiple bank accounts linked to him were frozen, and further investigations are ongoing to track his criminal network.


🔗 Read more


10. Bombay HC Asks for Cybersecurity Recommendations to Protect Govt Websites 🏛️🔍


The Bombay High Court has urged cybersecurity experts to suggest strategies to prevent cyber attacks on Maharashtra government websites. The move follows a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by IT consultant Ruzbeh Raja, who highlighted vulnerabilities in state digital platforms.


🔗 Read more


11. Himachal Pradesh Police Launch ‘i-Crack’ Cyber Forensic Lab 🔬🛡️


Himachal Pradesh has unveiled ‘i-Crack’, a state-of-the-art cyber forensic lab to investigate digital frauds and analyze cybercrime evidence more efficiently.


Equipped with advanced AI-powered digital forensic tools, the lab aims to fast-track cyber investigations and educate citizens on preventing online fraud.


🔗 Read more


12. Ludhiana Man Loses Rs 2 Lakh in Fake Chyawanprash Order Scam 🍯⚠️


A Ludhiana resident looking to buy Chyawanprash online was scammed out of Rs 2 lakh after falling for a fake customer service call. Fraudsters tricked him into sharing bank details, leading to multiple unauthorized transactions.


Police warn against calling unknown numbers for refunds and recommend verifying e-commerce websites before making payments.


🔗 Read more


13. Home Minister Unveils India’s Cybersecurity Strategy: 4Cs & 3As 🔒🇮🇳


Union Home Minister Amit Shah has introduced a new cybersecurity policy focusing on:

🔹 4Cs: Convergence, Coordination, Communication, and Capacity.

🔹 3As: AI, Awareness, and Action.


This initiative aims to enhance national cyber resilience, strengthen AI-powered cyber defense, and prevent rising online frauds.


🔗 Read more


14. Maharashtra Cyber Cell Summons 30-40 Celebrities in ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy 🎥⚖️


A legal storm brews as Maharashtra Cyber Cell summons influencers & YouTubers over objectionable content on ‘India’s Got Latent.’ Several social media stars, including Ranveer Allahbadia & Ashish Chanchlani, face inquiries over alleged misuse of digital platforms.


🔗 Read more


15. 14 Cybercriminals Arrested in Nuh; Mobiles, Fake SIM Cards Seized 📱🚔


In a major cybercrime crackdown, Haryana’s Nuh police apprehended 14 cybercriminals engaged in various online scams. The accused were using fake SIM cards, stolen identities, and social media to trick victims into fraudulent transactions. 💳💰


Authorities confiscated:

✔️ 13 mobile phones 📱

✔️ 19 fake SIM cards 📡

✔️ Two ATM cards linked to financial fraud 💳


Their primary schemes included sextortion, online taxi service scams, and even fraudulent claims of selling Mughal-era gold coins! The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging citizens to remain vigilant. 🚨


🔗 Read More


16. 11 Arrested for Opening Fake Aadhaar-Based Bank Accounts in Ahmedabad 🏦🔍


Ahmedabad police arrested 11 individuals involved in creating fake Aadhaar IDs to open bank accounts for cybercriminals. The operation uncovered a widespread fraud network spanning multiple states. 📑🔐


Police seized:

✔️ 12 mobile phones 📱

✔️ 21 identity documents (Aadhaar, PAN, Cheque Books) 🆔

✔️ 10 bank passbooks and 43 debit cards 💳


The fraudsters altered Aadhaar details using OTP verification from UIDAI, allowing them to operate across Gujarat and Rajasthan. Authorities are now tracking financial flows to dismantle the wider syndicate. 🚔


🔗 Read More


17. NIT Hosts Seminar on Cybersecurity & Risk Management 🏛️🖥️


The National Institute of Technology (NIT) conducted an insightful seminar on cybersecurity and digital risk management. Experts discussed AI-driven security measures, ethical hacking, and the growing threat of cyber frauds. 🧑‍💻💡


Key highlights:

✔️ Indian Army veterans shared insights on national security 🔎

✔️ Experts discussed digital governance & Ed-Tech innovations 🎓

✔️ The importance of cybersecurity awareness in public administration was emphasized


The event reinforced the urgency of strengthening India’s cybersecurity framework. 📢


🔗 Read More


18. Jamtara Cyber Fraud Gang Spreading Across India 🇮🇳🕵️


West Bengal police reported that Jamtara-based cybercriminals are expanding their operations to evade detection. These scammers, known for banking frauds and phishing attacks, are now operating from Rajasthan, MP, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh. 📞💸


✔️ 46 cybercriminals arrested in the last month 🚨

✔️ Kolkata police suspect deeper networks across India


Authorities warn that cybercriminals are adopting new tactics, urging financial institutions to tighten security protocols. 🔐


🔗 Read More


19. Cyber Cell Files Cases Against 30-40 People in ‘India’s Got Latent’ Controversy 🎭⚖️


Maharashtra Cyber Cell has registered cases against 30-40 people linked to controversial YouTube show India’s Got Latent. The allegations involve online hate speech and defamation, triggering nationwide debates on digital responsibility.


✔️ FIRs filed against multiple content creators 📜

✔️ Show host and guests under police scrutiny 👨‍⚖️


Legal experts highlight this case as a benchmark for regulating digital content. 📢


🔗 Read More


20. Maharashtra Cyber Cell Cracks Down on Concert Ticket Black Marketing 🎟️🛑


Following a spike in illegal concert ticket resales, Maharashtra Cyber Cell has enforced stricter measures for platforms like BookMyShow & Zomato.


✔️ Buyer’s name must be printed on high-demand tickets 🖊️

✔️ Govt ID verification mandatory at venue 🆔


This initiative aims to curb scalping and enhance transparency in online ticket sales.


🔗 Read More


21. 73 Officers Selected for Cyber Commando Program 🏅💻


In a bid to strengthen India’s cyber defense, 73 officers from Kerala Police have been selected for advanced cyber warfare training under the Ministry of Home Affairs’ I4C program.


✔️ Training in digital forensics, cybersecurity & AI-driven threat detection 🧑‍💻

✔️ Conducted at top institutes like NFSU & IITs 🎓


This move aims to equip officers with specialized skills to combat modern cyber threats.


🔗 Read More


🌍 International Cybersecurity Developments


1. Meta, Google, Airtel Join Safer Internet India Coalition 🌍🔒


Tech giants Meta, Google, and Airtel have joined forces to launch the Safer Internet India (SII) coalition, aimed at combating cyber threats and online fraud.


Key initiatives:

✔️ Improved AI-based fraud detection

✔️ Stronger security enforcement on digital platforms

✔️ Educational programs to prevent phishing and cyber scams


📖 Read More


2. Dark Web Ransomware Groups Surge by 38% 📈💀


A Searchlight Cyber Report revealed a 38% YoY increase in ransomware groups operating on the dark web. The most active groups include RansomHub, LockBit, Play, Akira, and Hunters International.


The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) is enabling cybercriminals to launch large-scale cyber extortion operations, posing a serious threat to businesses and government agencies. 🚨


📖
Read More

3. Microsoft Uncovers Sandworm Subgroup’s Global Cyber Attacks 🌎💀


Microsoft’s Threat Intelligence team has detected a state-sponsored hacking campaign targeting over 15 countries, orchestrated by the Russian Sandworm subgroup.


These cyber-attacks exploited internet-facing infrastructure to spy on global government & financial networks.


🔗 Read more


4. NVIDIA & Armis Partner to Protect Cyber-Physical Systems 🛡️🤖


Cybersecurity firm Armis has collaborated with NVIDIA to enhance cyber defenses for critical infrastructure, leveraging AI-powered security frameworks.


This move strengthens digital resilience in healthcare, defense, and financial sectors, reducing AI-powered cyber risks.


🔗 Read more


5. Former UK Cyber Spy Chief Calls for Transparency in Intelligence Operations 🔍🇬🇧


Sir Jeremy Fleming, former head of GCHQ, has urged intelligence agencies to increase transparency regarding their cyber operations.


✔️ UK facing pressure over Apple iCloud encryption backdoor dispute 🔓

✔️ US Senate Intelligence Committee warns of strained relations if UK proceeds


The debate underscores the global tension between cybersecurity and national security. 🛡️


🔗 Read More


6. 5th Annual Global Cyber Innovation Summit – ‘Davos of Cybersecurity’ 🏛️🔒


Cybersecurity leaders gathered at the Global Cyber Innovation Summit, a premier event shaping the future of digital security.


✔️ NSA, CIA, and FBI officials discussed national cyber defense strategies

✔️ Tech firms showcased AI-driven security advancements


This event underscores the urgency of international cooperation in tackling cyber threats.


🔗 Read More




🔥 Closing Thoughts


Cyber threats are becoming smarter, faster, and more dangerous. Episode 19 showcases:

✅ The rising trend of ‘digital arrest’ scams targeting elderly citizens.

Government-led cybersecurity initiatives tackling online fraud.

Corporate & international efforts in fortifying AI-based cyber defenses.


As cyber fraudsters evolve, staying informed is your best defense! 💡🔒

Join us for Episode 20 as we continue unmasking cyber threats. Until then, stay cyber-aware with Visionary Bose! 🌍💻

By : 
Shivam Dharpure

Founder & Director

Visionary Bose Pvt. Ltd.


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