Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing Dismantles International SIM Box Scam Network in Major Crackdown

Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing Busts Major Transnational SIM Box Fraud Network

In a technologically sophisticated operation against transnational organised cybercrime, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing Headquarters has achieved a significant breakthrough by dismantling a major SIM box fraud network operating from multiple Indian states.

Major Seizure in Delhi

Acting on intelligence inputs, the Cyber Crime Wing uncovered 24 automated fraud calling machines—also known as signal boxes—being operated remotely by foreign nationals from New Delhi. These SIM boxes were instrumental in executing digital arrest scams, where unsuspecting victims are threatened with fake legal action to extort money.

Statewide Raids and Arrests

Last month, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing conducted synchronised raids across the state. Key developments include:

• Seizure of 14 high-capacity Quectel SIM boxes in Chennai

• Arrest of six suspects

• Recovery of one additional SIM box

• Discovery that five SIM boxes were destroyed by the accused in Ramanathapuram, fearing arrest

Further investigation revealed that the key suspect had handed over eight more SIM boxes in Delhi, indicating a nationwide spread of the network across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bihar.

Nationwide Investigation and Raids

Following these leads, Dr. Sandeep Mittal, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, directed the formation of multiple teams under the supervision of I. Shahnaz, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Cyber Crime Investigation Centre. These teams, led by DySPs and Police Inspectors, conducted simultaneous raids in:

• Narela (New Delhi) – Seizure of 16 SIM boxes

• Nilothi (New Delhi) – Seizure of 8 SIM boxes

• Bihar and Maharashtra – Extended probe

Three individuals were arrested:

• Tarikh Alam (M/19) – Resident of Nilothi

• Lokesh Kumar (M/33)

• Ashok Kumar (M/40)

Tower dump and Call Detail Record (CDR) analysis confirmed the use of these devices in large-scale VoIP fraud operations linked to international cybercrime syndicates.

Crackdown Results

Over the past two months, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has successfully dismantled 44 SIM boxes, delivering a major blow to the international scam network. These devices were being used to run fraudulent VoIP call routing hubs, bypassing telecom regulations and aiding impersonation scams.

The Cyber Crime Wing is currently analysing the data to map interstate and intrastate linkages and uncover more nodes in the criminal network.

  Cyber Safety Advisory for Citizens

To combat rising cyber threats, the police have issued the following important precautions:

• Do not fall for offers promising commission for opening bank accounts, transporting SIM boxes, or carrying electronic gadgets.

• Ignore threats of “Digital Arrest.” There is no such legal concept in India.

• Government agencies will never demand money for grievance redressal or verification.

• Never share Aadhaar, PAN, bank credentials, OTPs, or personal information over calls or video chats.

• Do not accept video calls from unknown persons claiming to be government officials. Scammers may use AI-generated content or pre-recorded videos.

• Avoid downloading remote access apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer on instructions from unknown callers.

• If you suspect a scam or have been a victim, **immediately call the national cyber helpline: **1930

• Or register your complaint at: www.cybercrime.gov.in

 Conclusion

This large-scale crackdown by the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing underscores the importance of proactive cyber policing in the digital age. As cybercriminals adopt advanced methods and operate across borders, public awareness and caution remain the first line of defense.

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