Mumbai professor loses ₹1 lakh to AI scam threatening son’s arrest if payment not made
A troubling incident has brought attention to the increasing complexity of cybercrime, as S S Sarkar, a 58-year-old professor at NMIMS College in Mumbai, was victimized by a fraudulent scheme involving Artificial Intelligence (AI), leading to significant financial harm. Sarkar was ensnared in a deceitful plot orchestrated by individuals utilizing AI technology for nefarious purposes.
Fraudulent call from “Inspector Vijaykumar”
The incident began when Sarkar, who was working at the facility, received an unexpected call from someone claiming to be “Inspector Vijaykumar” from the Mumbai Police Department. The impostor, speaking urgently and in an authoritative voice, brought frightening news: Sarkar’s son had allegedly been arrested, and unless he quickly paid a substantial amount of money, his son would face immediate arrest and legal action.
What makes this scam especially clever is the use of artificial intelligence to increase its legitimacy and effectiveness. Before contacting Sarkar, the scammer painstakingly collected his personal and family information from various social media sites, adding to the appearance of authenticity and creating a sense of urgency in the victim. Despite not repeating his son’s voice, the scammer expertly used personal information gathered through AI technology to augment the coercive techniques used throughout the blackmail.
Police investigation and response
With AI-based fraud on the rise, cybersecurity experts and law enforcement organizations are warning of a growing threat posed by tech-savvy scammers who prey on unsuspecting individuals. The cyber department of the Juhu Police Department quickly launched an investigation into Sarkari’s case, which found out the innovative way of working of the culprits. In collaboration with financial institutions, efforts are being made to trace and close accounts associated with illegal transactions totaling Rs. 1 lakh.
Sarkar’s side of the story remains unclear as he refuses to respond to the media. In his official complaint, Sarkar described the traumatic experience of succumbing to false demands, believing his son’s freedom was at stake. The reality of the scam was only revealed after the transactions were completed and contact was made with his son, leaving him in shock and disbelief.
