Cyber Fraud News: A shocking case of cyber fraud has surfaced from Delhi, where a retired government officer lost over ₹1.4 crore after falling prey to a sophisticated scam posing as an EPFO official. What started as a phone call turned into a 10-month-long trap involving fake documents, CBI threats, and emotional manipulation.
It All Began with One Call…
In May 2023, the victim received a call from someone claiming to be Alok Mehta, an official from the EPFO Delhi office. The caller stated that over ₹63 lakh in PF funds were stuck and could only be released after paying a small “security charge” of ₹7,230. Trusting the caller, the officer transferred the money.
Soon after, fake documents stamped with official-looking seals were sent via WhatsApp, convincing the victim of the claim’s authenticity. Gradually, the scammer demanded more money for fees, tax clearance, and verification charges.
The CBI Angle and the Fake Cheque
By March 2024, a new twist was added. A woman named Mahi Sharma called, pretending to be from the Mumbai branch of the CBI. She claimed that Alok Mehta had been arrested and that a formal investigation was underway. To maintain trust, they even sent a fake cheque promising the return of funds—only to demand more payments under the guise of tax and NOC charges.
The victim continued transferring money until November 2024, only to realize the cheque was bogus when he tried to encash it.
Police Complaint and Ongoing Investigation
On May 28, 2025, the victim filed an FIR at the West Cyber Police Station in Delhi. Authorities are now tracking the scam’s digital footprint, suspecting it to be part of a larger cybercrime network.
How to Stay Safe from EPFO Scams:
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No Government Body Sends Documents on WhatsApp.
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EPFO communicates only through its official portal or verified email.
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Before transferring any money, verify via EPFO’s official helpline or website.
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Be wary of calls citing CBI or other agencies to create panic or urgency.
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If in doubt, contact your nearest cyber police station immediately.
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Victims can report scams via the cybercrime helpline 1930 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.
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