A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, who was on a journey from Lucknow to the northeast region, became the victim of a sophisticated cyber fraud operation after his belongings were stolen aboard the Kumbh Express train. The incident, which unfolded via Howrah Station in Kolkata, has prompted a police investigation into the use of stolen data and manipulated IP addresses.
Theft on Kumbh Express Leads to Major Financial Loss
The CRPF man was travelling in the second AC coach of the Kumbh Express, a train that originates from Dehradun. During the journey, his ATM cards, mobile phone, and two SIM cards were allegedly stolen. This theft set the stage for a series of fraudulent activities that resulted in a significant financial blow.
Fraudulent Transactions and Bank Response
On Thursday, the victim reported fraudulent transactions totalling Rs 10 lakh from his bank accounts. Cyber criminals allegedly used his stolen card details to make online orders and conduct ATM withdrawals. Acting swiftly, the CRPF personnel managed to intimate his bank, leading to the freezing of transactions worth Rs 6 lakh. However, transactions amounting to Rs 4 lakh from his three accounts could not be halted in time, resulting in an irreversible loss. The frozen funds have yet to be recovered, adding to the distress of the situation.
Delayed Reporting and Kolkata Stay
The victim was scheduled to take a flight from Kolkata to Imphal in Manipur, but his plans were disrupted by the theft. According to one of his relatives, he arrived at Howrah Station around 3.15 am and took some time to lodge a general diary at the Howrah Government Railway Police (GRP) station. Consequently, he stayed back at the CRPF camp in Kolkata, awaiting further developments in the case.
Police Investigation into Cyber Fraud Techniques
Kolkata police have revealed that the fraud was executed using the stolen mobile numbers and manipulated IP addresses, highlighting the advanced methods employed by the cyber criminals. Sources indicate that a probe is currently underway to trace the perpetrators and understand the full extent of the fraud. This incident underscores the growing threat of cyber crime in India, particularly in transit hubs like Howrah Station.
Broader Implications for Travel Security
This case serves as a stark reminder for travellers to safeguard their personal belongings and financial information, especially on long-distance trains. The CRPF man's experience points to the need for enhanced security measures and prompt reporting mechanisms to combat such frauds effectively.
