FIghting CyberFraud

IQ
2 days ago
2 min read

This is a new feature where the members of Forces Network share their stories of distress or certain troublesome issues where they were helped by the Forces Network community. This showcases the strength of the Forces Network community. We must realize that we are extremely powerful if we stand united and help each other. This is the very intention behind this feature. We also wish to recognize and celebrate the members who pitched in to help.

In this month’s story Lt Cdr Mathan G shares the story of how his aged Uncle fell victim to a cyber fraud and lost money. He also shares what happened when he approached the Forces Network community for help.

Background

My uncle, a retired employee from a private firm residing in Coimbatore, became a victim of cybercrime. Fraudsters, impersonating as police officers, intimidated him with threats of a fake FIR and a police case, eventually extracting his bank account details and passwords, and siphoning off his money in Mar 2024. He had lost money to the tune of Rs 7 Lakhs approximately. Despite the severity of the incident, no FIR had been filed and there was no response from the local police—even eight months after the crime.

N Suresh Kumar My Uncle and victim of cyber crime

Forces Network Support When I became aware of the situation, I reached out to the Forces Network for assistance. The response I received was overwhelming. Colonel Rajeev Bhatt and Commander Vivek Anand extended immense support at various levels, which proved crucial in pursuing the case and recovering the funds.

Cdr Rajeev Bhatt – who spoke at Police Commissioner level, thereby putting pressure from the top

Col Rajeev Bhatt, based in Delhi and is actively involved in projects with the police department, personally engaged with senior police officials to get the FIR registered and got the stalled case moving.

Cdr Vivek Anand – who helped for police support at grass root level and mobilised the case at Police station level

Commander Vivek Anand, a serving Indian Navy officer nearing retirement, connected me with the Cyber Crime Police in Chennai, who mobilized local sub-inspectors and constables to take action.

Thanks to their relentless efforts, my Uncle was finally able to recover ₹1.5 lakhs. A case that appeared dormant due to an eight-month delay was revived and brought to a successful resolution thanks to the Forces Network community.

All the credit goes to the Forces Network—a true force multiplier!

Sincere thanks to Col Iqbal Sir for creating this powerful network of support. Kudos to the Forces Network. Jai Hind.

Regards

Lt Cdr G Mathan