On April 8, 2025, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Member of Legislative Council Mohammad Shoaib was held "digitally hostage" by cyber fraudsters at his Patna residence. Posing as officials from the Mumbai Police Cyber Crime Unit, the culprits accused Shoaib of involvement in a money laundering case. They alleged that fraudulent transactions worth crores had been carried out through a Canara Bank account linked to him. Using threats of arrest, legal action, and even death, the scammers coerced Shoaib into sharing sensitive personal and financial details, including Aadhaar credentials, property records, and his signature on blank paper.
The scammers operated with chilling precision, keeping Shoaib confined to his home and warning him against seeking help. Shoaib later stated, “They said that if you step out of your house or reach out to others for assistance, chances are that you might even be killed.” Suspecting foul play, Shoaib eventually contacted the authorities and filed a complaint. An FIR was registered on April 10, 2025, under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing cyber threats in India and globally. As digital fraud continues to evolve, it underscores the urgent need for vigilance and awareness.
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