Fake Cops, Real Scams: Kerala Police Bust Cyber Fraud Racket — Learn How to Stay Safe from Impersonation Scams

With the rapid growth of technology, cybercrime is also evolving at an alarming rate. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive people, and the latest technique involves posing as police officers to trap innocent individuals. A recent case in Aluva, Kerala, has exposed one such racket, where conmen impersonated Mumbai Police officials to intimidate and defraud a young man.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the scam unfolded, how the Kerala Police uncovered the truth, and most importantly — how you can protect yourself from such cyber frauds.

The Scam: Impersonating Police Officers

On June 27, 2025, a young man from Aluva began receiving multiple phone calls from an unknown number. The caller claimed to be an officer from Mumbai Police, alleging that the youth’s Aadhaar number was linked to two illegal websites.

The impersonator accused the man of being involved in drug trafficking, warning him of imminent arrest. Though the youth denied any knowledge of such activities, the scammer insisted that his identity may have been misused, and convinced him to undergo a “verification” process with a so-called Cybercrime Division via video call.

How Kerala Police Uncovered the Scam

Panicked and confused, the youth visited the Aluva Cyber Police Station. While he was there, the fraudster called again. This time, a real police officer at the station answered the phone, pretending to be the victim.

The scammer repeated his threats, but when the officer asked for verification details like name, badge number, and police station address, the fraudster panicked. He gave a fake police station name that didn’t exist and insisted on conducting the video call from a “private room.” When the officer continued questioning him, the scammer hung up abruptly.

Investigation Reveals Use of Fake SIM and IDs

Upon further investigation, police found that the caller had been using a SIM card registered with fake identification documents. Fortunately, the youth’s Aadhaar number was not compromised, and he was assured of its safety.

Authorities believe that such scam operations are often run from Northern India or even foreign locations like Cambodia and Laos, using forged documents, fake SIM cards, and untraceable bank accounts to carry out fraudulent activities.

Common Tactics Used by Cybercriminals in Such Scams

• Impersonation of law enforcement or government officials

• Use of fear tactics, such as threats of arrest or legal action

• Demanding Aadhaar, bank, or OTP details for "verification"

• Video calls to establish false legitimacy

• Requests to transfer money or click on suspicious links

How to Protect Yourself from Police Impersonation Scams

Stay Calm Under Pressure
If someone calls or messages you with threats or legal accusations, do not panic. Scammers often rely on fear to force quick decisions.

Verify the Caller’s Identity
Ask for the person’s full name, badge number, and police station address. Cross-check the information with official sources or contact the local police station directly.

Never Share Sensitive Information
Never reveal your Aadhaar number, bank details, passwords, or OTP over phone calls or video chats, no matter who the caller claims to be.

Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
Visit your nearest police station or cybercrime cell if you suspect a scam. You can also report online fraud on the Cybercrime Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in).

Stay Informed About New Scams
Follow updates from official police accounts and cyber safety organizations to stay updated on the latest fraud tactics.

Educate Friends and Family
Share information about such scams with your family and friends, especially elderly or less tech-savvy individuals, to keep them alert.

Conclusion: Vigilance is the Best Defense

The Kerala Police's quick thinking not only saved a young man from becoming a cybercrime victim but also helped expose a dangerous impersonation racket. This case is a strong reminder of how realistic and convincing scammers can be — but also of the importance of staying alert and asking the right questions.

As cyber frauds become increasingly sophisticated, protecting your digital identity requires constant awareness, skepticism, and prompt action. If a caller ever claims to be from the police, remember: the real law enforcement will never ask for sensitive personal information over a phone call.

Stay informed. Stay safe. And don’t fall for the badge without the proof.