A 62-year-old Bengaluru man has reportedly lost ₹7,44,831 in a SIM swap fraud after his mobile number stopped functioning for several days, allowing cybercriminals to carry out unauthorised bank transactions without his knowledge.
According to the complaint, the victim’s mobile number remained inactive between May 31 and June 7, 2026. During this period, he was unable to receive calls, messages, OTPs or banking alerts.
Mobile Number Stayed Inactive for Days
The victim initially believed the issue was a routine telecom glitch and approached the mobile service centre.
However, the service disruption continued for several days.
Investigators believe this window allowed fraudsters to gain control over his mobile-linked banking access and bypass OTP-based authentication.
Fraud Detected After Mobile Service Returned
After regaining connectivity, the victim tried to access his mobile banking app but faced login problems.
He then visited an ATM and obtained a mini statement, which showed multiple suspicious transactions.
Bank officials later confirmed that ₹7,44,831 had been debited through several unauthorised transfers.
Police Register SIM Swap Fraud Case
The victim reported the incident through the national cybercrime helpline 1930 and filed a formal police complaint.
Police have registered a case and started examining bank records, telecom logs and digital footprints.
The telecom service provider has also been asked to submit details about the mobile number’s disconnection and restoration timeline.
How SIM Swap Fraud Works
In SIM swap fraud, criminals take control of a victim’s mobile number by duplicating or transferring the SIM.
Once they control the number, they can intercept OTPs, banking alerts and verification messages.
This allows them to access bank accounts and move funds quickly before the victim realises what has happened.
Experts Warn Against OTP-Only Security
Cybersecurity experts say mobile-based authentication remains vulnerable if telecom verification systems are compromised.
They recommend stronger safeguards such as device-based approvals, biometric verification, transaction limits and real-time fraud monitoring.
Citizens should immediately contact both their bank and telecom provider if their mobile number suddenly stops working.
Why Forensic Review Matters
SIM swap fraud investigations require tracing telecom records, banking logs, device activity and transaction movement. Professional forensic audit services can help identify suspicious fund flows, reconstruct digital trails and support fraud recovery efforts.
Shunyatax Global Insight
At Shunyatax Global, we believe quick reporting is critical in cyber fraud cases. If your mobile network suddenly stops working and banking alerts stop arriving, report it immediately to your bank, telecom provider and cybercrime helpline 1930.
For more updates on cybercrime, financial fraud and compliance, visit Shunyatax.in.