In one case, a cab driver from Pune was flown to Kolkata and provided accommodation at a three-star hotel. In another, a vegetable vendor from Pimpri Chinchwad was taken to Udaipur and lodged at a resort. While the arrangements appeared attractive, both individuals were unknowingly trapped into handing over their bank account credentials. Their accounts later received large sums linked to cyber fraud, leading to police action against them.
Investigators found several social media groups where bank accounts are openly traded. Posts on Facebook and Telegram advertise the need for savings or current accounts, often claiming links to gaming companies or investment platforms. Some posts even display “commission rate cards” for different banks to entice potential account holders.
According to cybercrime officials, these mule accounts form the backbone of online fraud operations. Once access is gained, the accounts are controlled remotely from outside India. Illegal payment gateways are created using these accounts to receive funds from fake investment schemes, gaming frauds, and other online scams. The money is then quickly transferred to multiple accounts or converted into cryptocurrency to avoid detection.
Fraudsters typically promise a commission of two to five per cent. To gain trust, they arrange domestic flights and luxury accommodation. Once the individual reaches the destination, cybercriminals take possession of bank kits, including ATM cards, cheque books, SIM cards, passbooks, and internet banking details.
Police further noted that some mule account holders are pressured to withdraw cash for the criminals. When these accounts are flagged during cybercrime investigations, they are frozen, and the account holders face questioning, arrest, and legal action.
Citing an advisory issued by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Pimpri Chinchwad police have strongly warned citizens against renting, selling, or sharing bank accounts. Officials added that fraudsters may also misuse company registration or Udyam Aadhaar certificates of small businesses to open such accounts, exposing owners to serious legal consequences.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious online offers promising easy income in exchange for bank access.
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