Pune : Scammers Target Builders and IT Professionals with False Child Pornography Accusations, Demanding Ransom

By: Pune Pulse

September 3, 2023

Pune: Builders, IT professionals and contractors in India are being targeted by cybercriminals who are sending fraudulent emails posing as the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center in Delhi. These emails claim that the recipient is involved in child pornography or terrorist activities and threaten arrest if they do not respond within 24 hours.

As per the information received, the emails appear authentic, bearing the signatures of officers and the seals of the institution. However, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center has confirmed that these emails are fake and issued a warning to citizens. It is important to note that these cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to deceive people. In this particular scam, the criminals are directly targeting central government institutions and using the signatures and seals of officials to make the emails appear legitimate.

The emails allege that illegal activities, such as child pornography and cyber pornography, have been detected on the recipient’s electronic device. They claim that this is a violation of various sections of the law, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act and the Information Technology Act. The email states that the case will be investigated by the CBI and the Indian Cyber Crime Unit and urges the recipient to respond within 24 hours to avoid arrest.

Upon opening the email, the criminals can obtain the IP address of the recipient’s device. They then follow up with a phone call, demanding a sum of money to avoid arrest. Cyber experts have noted an increase in such complaints recently. It is crucial to be aware of these scams and not fall victim to them. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center has confirmed that they do not send such emails, and citizens should exercise caution if they receive any suspicious mail.

Madhupriya Dhanwate