CBI Busts Cross-Border Cyber Fraud Network Targeting US Nationals

Noida | December 12, 2025:

In a major crackdown on transnational cybercrime, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has dismantled a sophisticated cross-border fraud network operating out of Noida that allegedly cheated American citizens of USD 8.5 million (approximately ₹71 crore).

The operation, carried out under CBI’s ongoing “Operation Chakra” initiative, was executed with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). During coordinated raids, six key operatives were arrested, and investigators seized ₹1.88 crore in cash, 34 electronic devices, and multiple incriminating documents linked to the illegal call centre.

CBI officials said the accused posed as officers from US agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Victims were falsely informed that their Social Security Numbers were connected to drug trafficking or money laundering cases.

Using fear-based tactics such as threats of account freezes and “digital arrests,” the fraudsters coerced victims into transferring money to cryptocurrency wallets and overseas bank accounts controlled by the network. Investigators believe the racket operated between 2022 and 2025, systematically exploiting regulatory and jurisdictional gaps.

The illegal call centre in Noida functioned as the operational hub, while raids were also conducted at linked locations in Delhi and Kolkata. Officials confirmed that the accused were caught making live scam calls to US nationals at the time of the search.

CBI stated that the proceeds of crime were routed through layered international accounts and virtual assets, making financial tracing complex. Such cases, investigators noted, underline the importance of transaction transparency and forensic scrutiny—areas where auditing services in india play a critical role in detecting irregular financial flows at early stages.

A CBI spokesperson described the operation as a significant milestone in India’s fight against organised cyber-enabled financial crime. The agency is working closely with INTERPOL and foreign law enforcement bodies to trace overseas collaborators and freeze linked assets.

Cyber forensics teams are currently conducting blockchain analysis and device-level examinations to map the full digital and financial footprint of the network. Officials said further arrests are likely as the investigation expands across jurisdictions.

The CBI has advised citizens to remain cautious of unsolicited calls or emails from individuals claiming to be government or law enforcement officials, particularly those demanding payments or personal information. Complaints can be reported through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or local police stations.