Surat Cyber Scam: Surat has become the center of one of India’s largest cyber fraud cases, with over ₹2,600 crore laundered through 1,405 bank accounts in just 270 days. These accounts were opened in 13 private and 11 government banks, averaging five new accounts every day.
Surat Cyber Scam: How the Scam Worked
According to Surat Police, fraudsters often use forged documents obtained from job seekers or loan applicants to open bank accounts. These accounts were then used for money laundering linked to online scams like:
- Stock market trading tips
- Fake loan apps
- Cryptocurrency investments
- Betting and gaming platforms
- Online “digital arrest” frauds
The suspects operated via encrypted Telegram channels and converted the money into cryptocurrency (USDT), which was transferred to accounts overseas, including in China, Thailand, Pakistan, Myanmar, and Malaysia.
Police Action and Arrests
The breakthrough came when local police intercepted a car in Udhna and found documents related to bank account openings. This led to a series of raids, including one on a hotel in Surat.
- So far, several individuals have been arrested, including key operatives from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- Authorities have frozen over ₹1.4 crore across various bank accounts.
- More than 2,500 complaints have been registered on the national cybercrime portal in the past six months, including 265 from Gujarat.
Police have invoked the GuJCTOC (Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organised Crime Act) against the accused, treating the case as part of a larger organised crime network.
Why This Surat Cyber Scam Matters
This is one of India’s largest and most complex cybercrime cases to date, highlighting how:
- Fraudsters exploit digital platforms and banking loopholes
- International cybercrime networks operate via Indian bank accounts
- There is a growing need for cyber hygiene, public awareness, and tighter verification mechanisms in banking
Official Links for Victims
If you suspect you’ve been a victim of cyber fraud, report it immediately at:
Summary
Surat cyber scam: A syndicate opened 1,405 mule accounts in 270 days and laundered over INR 2,600 crore. Moreover, investigators noted an average of 5 new scams a day. Furthermore, accounts were used for fraud involving digital assets, betting, stock tips, crypto transfers, and more.
