Pune: In a significant success for Pune’s Cyber Police, a city-based reputed company that fell victim to a ₹41 lakh cyber fraud has recovered its stolen funds. The scammers, who impersonated the company's Managing Director (MD) via WhatsApp, manipulated the company’s accountant into transferring the amount without verification.
The incident unfolded when an unknown number sent a WhatsApp message to the company’s accountant, falsely claiming to be the MD and stating that he was in an important meeting. The message read:
"This is my personal mobile number. Funds need to be transferred immediately to another company. Transfer ₹40.90 lakh from the company’s bank account right away."
Believing it to be an urgent directive from the MD, the accountant transferred the money online without confirming the request. The fraud was only uncovered when the accountant later met the MD in person, who denied sending any such message. Realizing the scam, the company promptly filed a complaint at the Cyber Police Station.
Under the guidance of Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Shailesh Balkawade, a special investigation team was formed, comprising Deputy Commissioner of Police (Economic & Cyber Crimes) Vivek Masal, Assistant Commissioner Machindra Khade, and Senior Inspector Swapnali Shinde. Officers Tushar Bhosale, Navnath Konde, Kiran Jamdade, Ashwini Bhosale, Jyoti Diwane, Madhuri Karale, and Sonali Chavan played a crucial role in the investigation.
Cyber police immediately tracked the fraudulent transaction, contacted banks in another state, and coordinated with nodal officers to freeze the scammer’s bank accounts. Their swift intervention ensured that the entire amount was successfully recovered and returned to the company.
Cybercrime Prevention Tips:
Never transfer money based solely on a WhatsApp message or phone call. Always confirm directly with the concerned person.
Be cautious if a message claims to be from a senior official or close contact and requests financial transactions. Verify before acting.
If you receive a voice request for money that mimics someone you know, confirm it in person.
