Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police Launch Nationwide Crackdown on SIM Card Fraud Network
Hyderabad Cyber Crime police launched Operation Octopus 3.0 across multiple states to expose networks supplying SIM cards and support systems to cyber criminals nationwide.
- Cyber Crime police target SIM supply gangs
- Operation Octopus 3.0 expands across states
- Police arrest agents linked to cyber fraud
Hyderabad Cyber Crime police have intensified their nationwide investigation against organised cyber fraud networks through a major operation named Operation Octopus 3.0.
The latest phase of the operation is focused on identifying gangs and agents accused of supplying SIM cards to cyber criminals involved in online scams and financial fraud activities across the country.
According to police officials, raids and investigation activities are currently being carried out in 15 states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar and Jharkhand.
During the investigation, police uncovered several networks that were allegedly helping cyber criminals obtain SIM cards for illegal operations. So far, ten agents connected to the network have been arrested.
Officials also confirmed that notices were issued to around 30 people suspected of acting as middlemen between SIM suppliers and cyber fraud groups.
Hyderabad Cyber Crime police had earlier launched the first two phases of Operation Octopus to target other support systems used by online fraudsters. In Operation Octopus 1.0, the focus was mainly on individuals supplying bank accounts to cyber criminals.
Later, Operation Octopus 2.0 concentrated on bank officials and employees suspected of helping fraud networks operate through financial channels.
With Operation Octopus 3.0, investigators are now trying to completely dismantle the SIM card supply chain that enables cyber criminals to carry out anonymous fraud activities. Police said the operation is still continuing in several states and more arrests are likely in the coming days.
