Kidney trading linked deceptive website exploits identity of gynaecologist, FIR lodged
Bengaluru: The identity of a Bengaluru-based gynaecologist was misused by cybercriminals to construct a fake website dedicated to kidney trade. This deceptive platform is purportedly misleading unsuspecting individuals by falsely promising monetary compensation in exchange for the sale of crucial organs.
On August 11, a First Information Report (FIR) was officially filed at the North East CEN police station in connection with the incident.
The doctor lodged a formal complaint asserting that her name had been utilized on the website to create the illusion that she operates a 'kidney transplant center'. Specializing in gynaecology, the doctor emphasized that this situation has tarnished her reputation. Adding to this, her spouse is also a medical practitioner.
According to a cybersecurity expert, criminals exploit the identities of legitimate doctors to appear in search results when individuals seek out these doctors. This creates an illusion of authenticity for the website. The fraudulent website may have been devised exclusively to extract money under the guise of kidney-related transactions.
In the instant case, the website, labeled as the 'kidney transplant center', proclaims, "Are you facing financial constraints? Trade your kidney now and receive Rs 6 crore. Reach out to (doctor's name). We offer Rs 6 crore Indian Rupees ($824,000 U.S. Dollars) for a single kidney. Selling a kidney won't impede your normal life. Following the procedure, you'll regain your health and vitality. Our surgical operation ensures a 100% success rate.
"We provide 50% upfront payment (Rs 3 crore Indian Rupees) upon registration, with the remaining 50% (Rs 3 crore Indian Rupees) immediately disbursed post-surgery."
The website does not provide a physical office address; however, it does display a WhatsApp contact. This WhatsApp number directs users to a chatbox within a business account. Conventional phone calls cannot be made to this number, as incoming calls are restricted.
Also Read: Max Healthcare Files Complaint Against Fake Website Created For Potential Kidney Sellers
The website's content continues with the following statement, "Exemplifying excellence through meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality care, effective problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork. A community of individuals devoted to revolutionizing the patient and family experience through inventive and cooperative approaches to healthcare, knowledge, and leadership."
This statement is attributed to the doctor's name.
According to a recent media report in The Hindu, experts also highlighted that such websites often request interested individuals to pay fees. For those who make payments, the criminals persist in demanding more money until the victim either depletes their funds or realizes they've fallen victim to a scam. If any doctor or individual discovers their name is being misused, they are advised to promptly report the incident to the police.
