Mumbai Police have cracked down on a multi-layered cyber fraud network, arresting a man from Surat who is accused of playing a key role in distributing malicious software and aiding a range of online investment scams. The police say this network was involved in facilitating investment frauds, fake stock-like schemes and other cybercriminal activities by distributing harmful apps and routing defrauded funds through multiple accounts.
Who Was Arrested
- The arrested individual, Narayan Shankar Mali, was alleged to be running front operations — including an ice-cream shop in Surat — while distributing malicious e-challan APK files (fraudulent apps designed to trick users) that helped cybercriminals target victims.
Police Action and Investigation
- Mumbai police say the network involved multiple layers of fraud activity, including apps that mimic official notifications and cheat victims into investing in fake schemes with promises of high returns.
- The accused is believed to have channeled money and provided digital infrastructure used by larger fraud rings. Investigators are continuing to trace the full network and financial flows.
Public Safety Reminder
- Cyber frauds including fake investment platforms and malicious apps — are increasingly sophisticated, and authorities urge citizens to be cautious about unsolicited links, apps asking for financial details, and schemes promising unusually high returns.
- If you suspect online fraud, you can report it via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or call the cybercrime helpline 1930.
