Kolkata Police Uncover Major Cyber Fraud Call Center Scamming U.S. Citizens
Kolkata – In a significant crackdown on cybercrime, the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing raided an illegal call center in Chowhati, exposing a chilling operation targeting innocent U.S. citizens. The center, allegedly run from Southwinds under the jurisdiction of the Sonarpur Police Station, posed as Microsoft tech support, falsely promising assistance with computer issues.
Following credible intelligence, Anjali Singh, IPS, DIG of the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing, mobilized her team for an immediate investigation. Officers, supported by Baruipur Cyber Crime Police, executed the raid, uncovering a web of deceit designed to exploit unsuspecting victims.
The fraudulent scheme employed deceptive tactics, sending victims fake alerts indicating their computers were compromised. Contacted by operatives masquerading as Microsoft support, victims were tricked into granting remote access to their systems. Once in control, the scammers displayed fabricated error messages and offered overpriced service packages—₹17,422 for one year and ₹34,844 for three years. Funds were funneled into U.S. bank accounts, then swiftly converted into cryptocurrency for the prime suspect, Joy Halder, who allegedly orchestrated the operation with connections to China.
Beyond the Microsoft facade, the scammers wielded the names of U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials, threatening legal repercussions for supposed illicit activities connected to Russian hackers. This clever ruse further coerced victims into paying hefty penalties, with fake DHS documents adding a veneer of credibility.
During the raid, authorities apprehended three key operatives: Joy Halder (25), Tanmoy Mondal (25), and Subhajit Biswas (29). Seized items included laptops, smartphones, false documents, and significant cryptocurrency transaction details. Authorities also discovered a luxury Audi and properties purchased with the illicit gains.
As investigations continue, law enforcement has reached out to cryptocurrency exchanges to track and freeze suspect wallets. A compliant has been filed under multiple legal statutes, aiming to dismantle the broader syndicate behind this alarming cyber fraud.
