Dubai Cyber Fraud Hotspots Targeting Indians: A Global Scam Network Unveiled
Mumbai: Mumbai’s Cyber Crime Branch has uncovered a disturbing trend: a surge in cyber frauds targeting Indians, with Dubai emerging as a major hub for operations run by Chinese entities. Scams ranging from investment fraud to part-time job scams (like-and-earn) are being orchestrated from various locations across Dubai, despite repeated alerts to local authorities.
Key fraud hotspots include the Al Attar Business Center in Deira, Al Barsha, near Mushtaq Metro Station, where a call center on the second floor has become notorious. Sources reveal that this operation, guarded by Nigerian bodyguards, employs Chinese nationals who pose as financial institutions, trapping workers in exploitative conditions.
Another prime location is in Ajman, UAE, specifically near Al Dewan Towers on Kareem Street, where a call center under the name Karma Capital is being run by Chinese nationals. The operation, overseen by individuals using aliases like "Simran," relies on Indian bank accounts to launder illicit funds. Police have identified a network of fraudulent accounts, with funds often converted into cryptocurrency, making it nearly impossible for authorities to trace.
Dubai's Port Saeed area, near Centurion Tower, is also flagged as a hotspot, with fraudsters continuing their activities in residential buildings, evading detection. Despite multiple investigations and raids, these locations remain active, with Indian bank accounts being exploited for illicit transfers.
Authorities have traced the origin of many scams to Dubai, but operations extend to other countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, China, and Hong Kong. Scammers use Indian accounts to layer funds, which are then laundered through digital platforms. In the past year alone, Mumbai lost over Rs 1,000 crore to cyber fraud, with only a small fraction recovered.
Locations Identified:
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Al Attar Business Center, Deira, Al Barsha, Dubai
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Al Dewan Towers, Kareem Street, Ajman, UAE
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Port Saeed, near Centurion Tower, Dubai
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