Cyber Heroes: Maharashtra Saves Travel Firm’s Rs 90 Lakh from High-Stakes Scam

In an impressive feat, Maharashtra Cyber recovered Rs 90 lakh of stolen money from a Bhiwandi-based travel agency in an advanced whale phishing attack. The fraudsters spoofed the agency owner through WhatsApp, getting the accountant to remit money for a purported business venture. The scam was exposed when the accountant noticed the owner had not made such a request and immediately informed the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

Acting quickly, Maharashtra Cyber froze the bogus transaction by coordinating with financial intermediaries and banks. This recovery was a part of an operation in which the department settled five cases of cyber fraud totaling Rs 1.47 crore in 48 hours. Authorities stressed checking sources before financial transactions and immediately reporting cyber fraud.

The department is also bolstering its cybersecurity efforts with programs such as its 24x7 Command and Control Centre in Navi Mumbai and specific helplines for reporting cybercrimes.

Sources: Mid-Day, India Today, ThePrint