Lucknow doctor duped of Rs 2 crore by cyber fraudsters

Lucknow: In a case of cyber fraud, a renowned doctor from the state capital has been duped of Rs 2 crore. The doctor fell prey to the deceptive tactics of cybercriminals after being enticed by advertisements promoting a purported wealth management firm. 

The distinguished doctor, a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, was drawn to the promises of financial prosperity in the advertisements. However, little did he anticipate the devastating repercussions that would follow. Entrusting his financial assets to the said firm, the doctor became a member, only to realize later that he had become a victim of an elaborate scam.

The doctor said in his complaint, “I became a member after watching advertisements of a wealth management firm. They asked me to deposit money and later showed profits on their website time and again. As the account was showing a profit, they asked me to deposit more but when this amount reached Rs 2.27 crore and I asked for withdrawal, they asked for another deposit as commission.” “When they insisted on a commission, I asked them to deduct from my profit, but they refused. Sensing a fraud I filed a complaint,” reports IANS.  

There are legal frameworks for prosecuting cybercriminals engaged in fraudulent activities, including money-related offences conducted through digital channels. It's important to note that the India Penal Code (IPC) is supplemented by various other laws and regulations, such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, to address cybercrimes effectively. Action can be taken under Section 419 of IPC (Punishment for cheating by personation using computer resources).     

Last year, the Pune police arrested a fifth person, identified as the mastermind in a fraud case where a Pune-based doctor was cheated of Rs 2 crore in an insurance policy scam.