Berhampur Police Nab Man for Alleged Role in SIM Card Fraud Ring
In a significant crackdown on cyber crime, police in Berhampur arrested a 33-year-old man on Friday for allegedly supplying pre-activated SIM cards to cyber criminals approximately five years ago. The accused, identified as Prasanta Behera from Digapahandi, was taken into custody following a raid conducted as part of Operation Cyber Kavach.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
The arrest stemmed from reports received from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which highlighted the illegal activation and sale of pre-activated SIM cards. Acting on this intelligence, police raided a SIM selling point at Bada Bazar in Berhampur. During the operation, authorities seized one mobile phone and five SIM cards from the accused.
According to police statements, the SIM agent had issued the card to Behera by following the mandatory KYC (know your customer) norms. He obtained the SIM on February 18, 2021, and immediately handed it over to cyber criminals. Investigation revealed that the same SIM card was used in a major fraud case in Vikarabad town, Telangana.
Connection to Cyber Fraud Case
Saravana Viveka M., the Superintendent of Police (Berhampur), explained that the fraudsters utilized the mobile phone number to lure victims through social media platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. They offered "part-time job" opportunities, eventually defrauding individuals of over Rs 4.77 lakh. This case underscores the growing threat of cyber crime facilitated by misused SIM cards.
A case has been registered against the accused at the Berhampur cyber crime and economic offences police station on February 23. The charges include various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Information Technology Act-2000, and the Telecommunications Act-2023, reflecting the legal severity of such offenses.
Police Advisory and Public Warning
In an advisory issued to the public, SP Saravana Viveka M. emphasized the legal responsibilities associated with SIM card ownership. He warned, "Never obtain a SIM card in your name to give or sell to another person. You are legally responsible for any criminal activity linked to a SIM registered in your name."
The police urged citizens to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited part-time job offers received via social media, especially those promising high returns for simple tasks or requiring initial investments. If individuals suspect identity misuse or have been defrauded, they should report immediately at www.cybercrime.gov.in or call the National Helpline at 1930.
Broader Implications for Digital Security
This arrest highlights the critical need for enhanced digital security measures and stricter enforcement of KYC norms to prevent SIM card misuse. As cyber crimes evolve, such incidents serve as a reminder for the public to protect their personal information and report suspicious activities promptly. The ongoing efforts under Operation Cyber Kavach aim to curb such illegal activities and safeguard citizens from financial and identity fraud.
