A few days ago, cybercriminals used a package scam to target former Union home secretary K Padmanabhaiah. They were blocked, though, and the former AS officer—who is currently the Chairman of the Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI) in Hyderabad—reported this to the police.
The 86-year-old was called by the scammers to inform him that a FedEx courier package that was scheduled for shipment from Mumbai to Iran and contained drugs, credit cards, passports, and other evidence had been seized.
Police claim that on August 23, 2024, a lady calling on behalf of FedEx first inquired as to whether Padmanabhaiah had sent any packages. The caller told him that the shipment was sent from Mumbai to Iran and that the sender, K Padmanabhaiah, included his mobile number. He responded that he had not sent any packages.
She then told him that the package had been taken to Mumbai customs because they feared it contained illegal materials.
After that, the phone was forwarded to Mukesh, another “FedEx employee,” who claimed to be employed at the Andheri East branch. Mukesh informed him that the 93,410 shipping charge was made using a credit card and reiterated the story of the shipment containing forbidden products being dispatched under Padmanabhaiah’s name.
After Padmanabhaiah insisted that he had nothing to do with the parcel, Mukesh put him in touch with someone else so that the latter could file an online complaint with the Mumbai Cyber Crime Cell. The newcomer then informed Padmanabhaiah that he could use Skype to file an online complaint.
Even though Padmanabhaiah claimed he didn’t use Skype, the fraudster forced him to download the program. But because there was a slight delay, the fraudster became enraged and cursed at him for wasting his time. Additionally, Padmanabhaiah was threatened with jail by the scammers, so he ended the call.
Cybercrime Wing has opened an investigation.
Also read: Strengthening the prospects of data center industry with quality air solutions
Do Follow: CIO News LinkedIn Account | CIO News Facebook | CIO News Youtube | CIO News Twitter
About us:
CIO News is the premier platform dedicated to delivering the latest news, updates, and insights from the CIO industry. As a trusted source in the technology and IT sector, we provide a comprehensive resource for executives and professionals seeking to stay informed and ahead of the curve. With a focus on cutting-edge developments and trends, CIO News serves as your go-to destination for staying abreast of the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and IT. Founded in June 2020, CIO News has rapidly evolved with ambitious growth plans to expand globally, targeting markets in the Middle East & Africa, ASEAN, USA, and the UK.
CIO News is a proprietary of Mercadeo Multiventures Pvt Ltd.
