Haryana Police have identified 91 bank branches across the state that are being used by cybercriminals to operate fake or suspicious bank accounts, commonly known as “mule accounts.” These accounts are typically opened using forged documents, fake identities, or other deceptive methods. They are used to conduct large financial transactions linked to stolen money and various cybercrime activities. Out of these 91 branches 26 are in Gurugram and 24 are in Nuh district.
Police are now inspecting these bank branches to see if bank staff were careless or even helping the criminals. Investigators are examining lapses in the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, irregularities in account openings, and any signs of internal involvement by bank employees.
How Cybercriminals Trick People?
Cybercriminals use various deceptive tricks such as fake phone calls, suspicious links, counterfeit apps, and even video calls where they impersonate law enforcement officers threatening arrest, a scam known as a “digital arrest”.
The Cyber Crime Officer, Shibas Kabiraj, said that scammers pretend to be bank officials, police officers, government agents or employees of big companies. He advised people to
- Never share your OTP, PIN, or passwords , no matter who they say they are.
- Don’t scan strange QR codes or click on links, if they look suspicious or come from someone you don’t know.
- Don’t send money just because someone says they are from the government or police. Always double-check first.
- Stay alert and aware of these scams.
What Actions Are the Police Taking Against Cybercriminals?
The police are conducting raids on banks, carefully checking records, taking legal action against fraudsters, and keeping an eye on any bank staff who might be helping them. The Haryana Cyber Crime Police is coordinating with bank officials and cyber forensic teams to trace the money trail and bust larger criminal networks.
The head of Haryana Police, DGP Shatrujeet Kapur, said they are using a strong strategy to stop cybercrime. He said banks must also take responsibility, not just the police.
Haryana Police are cracking down on fraud through banks. They’re investigating suspicious bank accounts and want both banks and the public to stay alert to prevent cybercrime. Action will be taken against banks found to be negligent in KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols or in failing to detect suspicious transactions.