Sun Nov 17 14:42:37 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Police Crack Down on International Cybercrime Ring
**CHENNAI, November 17, 2024** – The Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing is collaborating with central agencies and the Department of Telecommunications to dismantle a large-scale international cybercrime operation targeting residents of the state. The investigation, aided by artificial intelligence, has uncovered thousands of pre-activated SIM cards operating primarily from Southeast Asian countries like Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, used to perpetrate online scams.
The surge in complaints regarding online trading scams, SIM card deactivation fraud, and credit/debit card upgrade schemes prompted the investigation. Police discovered that a significant number of fraudulent calls originated from these internationally activated SIM cards, often registered using fake documents within Tamil Nadu.
Authorities are working to block these SIM cards and trace the origin of numerous calls flooding the state. The AI tool helps identify suspicious numbers for deactivation if sufficient evidence of cybercrime is found.
Recent arrests highlight the scale of the operation. A gang was apprehended for defrauding individuals who were promised high returns on investments. Notable victims include a Madurai advocate who lost ₹96.57 lakh and a government doctor who lost ₹76.5 lakh. Police recently arrested eight individuals, with further arrests expected as the investigation extends to other states in India.
The investigation underscores the growing sophistication of international cybercrime and the importance of cross-agency cooperation in combating these threats.
First Piper 