TV
Cybercrime cases are on the rise across Odisha, with fake and pre-activated SIM cards emerging as a key tool for fraudsters. Shockingly, in Bhubaneswar, such SIM cards are openly available at roadside stalls, shopping malls, and markets.
Sources reported that in many instances, a single Aadhaar card is being used to issue multiple SIMs without proper verification on several street-side stalls. These illegally activated cards allow cybercriminals to operate from anywhere in the country and siphon off crores from unsuspecting victims.
Further, the state capital has emerged as a key base for cyber criminals, with several people reportedly readily providing their bank accounts to be used as ‘mule’ or ‘benami’ accounts that fraudsters use to conduct their financial transactions.
Mule Bank Accounts Exposed
Investigations have also uncovered the parallel use of mule bank accounts. In Chandaka, Bhubaneswar Police recently arrested five people, including three members of a family, for providing accounts to cybercriminals.
The arrests revealed that Chandaka is fast becoming a hub for organised cybercrime operations, previously associated with Jharkhand’s Jamtara.
Police said a deeper probe is underway into how entire families are being drawn into supporting fraud networks. One of the arrested accused, Akanksha Raut, admitted his involvement in providing accounts used for scam transactions.
"Cyber criminals use mule accounts and pre-activated SIM cards to make spurious transactions, calls and SMS. They know they can get away with it, as during an investigation, the person in whose name (Aadhar card) the SIM was issued would be held and not them,” said Bhubaneswar-based cyber security expert, Prashant Sahu.
Police Concern Over Expanding Network
Despite repeated meetings between Odisha Police and telecom operators, little progress has been made in curbing the illegal trade.
However, Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena confirmed that surprise checks and enforcement drives will soon be intensified in the capital.
According to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre report, Odisha, along with West Bengal and Assam, has turned into a hub for fake SIM cards.
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Intensified Action Planned
Police confirmed that further raids will be carried out to target SIM card rackets and financial conduits used by fraudsters. With Bhubaneswar emerging as a centre for both fake SIM distribution and mule accounts, enforcement agencies have stepped up surveillance to curb the growing menace.
"We are now tracking people who have offered their accounts as mule bank accounts. We recently also raided four to five shops selling pre-activated SIM cards,” said Bhubaneswar DCP Meena.
