Nationwide Cyber Scam Network Exposed: CBI Arrests Three in Operation Chakra-V
(By Syed Ali Taher Abedi)
Delhi, December 15, 2025 — In a major breakthrough against cybercrime, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has busted a nationwide phishing racket that duped citizens through digital arrest scams, fraudulent loans, and fake investment schemes. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals accused of orchestrating the large-scale cyber fraud.
the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified efforts under Operation Chakra-V, a specialized drive designed to shatter the backbone of digital fraud networks across the country. This operation zeroes in on the pervasive menace of fraudulent communications that prey on unsuspecting citizens, luring them into devastating financial traps.
The probe was triggered by a meticulous analysis of the overwhelming volume of fake SMS messages bombarding mobile users daily—deceptive alerts masquerading as bank notifications, lottery wins, or urgent payment demands that coax victims into revealing sensitive details or transferring funds. During the course of this investigation, CBI sleuths uncovered a highly organized cyber gang entrenched in the National Capital Region (NCR) and Chandigarh tri-state belt.
This syndicate was operating as a shadowy bulk SMS service provider, furnishing cybercriminals with the infrastructure to dispatch millions of phishing messages at scale. Shockingly, the investigation revealed international linkages, with foreign-based fraudsters exploiting this Indian service to target and defraud innocent citizens, siphoning off crores in illicit gains.
Initial investigation has shown that around 21,000 SIM cards were obtained in violation of DoT rules. These SIM cards were controlled through an online platform to send bulk messages. The messages offered fake loans, investment opportunities, and other financial benefits, with the aim of stealing personal and banking details of innocent people.
Working closely with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and using information from various sources, including the Sanchar Saathi portal, CBI registered a case against private company, M/s Lord Mahavira Services India Pvt. Ltd. The company was allegedly running the above illegal system that allowed fraudsters to send large numbers of fake messages to people across India.
Searches were conducted at several locations in Delhi, Noida, and Chandigarh. During these searches, CBI found a complete and active system used for sending phishing messages. This system included servers, communication devices, USB hubs, dongles, and thousands of SIM cards. Using this setup, lakhs of fraud messages were being sent every day.
CBI has seized important digital evidence, unaccounted cash, and cryptocurrency during the operation. Early findings also suggest the involvement of some channel partners of telecom companies and their employees, who helped in illegally arranging SIM cards for this fraud. Three people have been arrested so far.
This operation shows CBI’s strong commitment to stopping organised cybercrime by attacking its technical backbone. Through close coordination with other agencies and use of advanced intelligence, CBI will continue to act firmly against those who misuse technology to cheat the public and will ensure they are brought to justice under the law.
