Kolkata has seen a rise in cybercrime, with senior citizens becoming easy targets for scammers. One such victim, 76-year-old Manju Ganguly from DumDum Park in Laketown, lost ₹11 lakh to fraudsters. This shocking incident highlights how vulnerable elderly people are in the digital age. The police have arrested the criminals involved, offering some relief to the victim and her family. This case reminds us all to be cautious and aware of online scams.
How the Fraud Happened
Manju Ganguly received a call from someone pretending to be a bank official. The caller warned her that her debit card had been compromised and needed immediate replacement. Trusting the caller, she followed their instructions and unknowingly shared her banking details. Soon after, ₹11 lakh was stolen from her account, leaving her in shock.
This is not an isolated case. Many senior citizens across Kolkata and other cities are falling victim to such scams. Fraudsters use different tricks like fake phone calls, emails, and websites to steal sensitive information. These scams happen quickly, leaving victims helpless once the money is gone.
Police Action and Arrests
The Kolkata Police acted fast and arrested those responsible. They were also able to recover some of the stolen money. The police have since warned people to be careful of unknown calls and messages. This case shows how important quick police action is in fighting cybercrime, especially against vulnerable individuals.
However, for victims like Ganguly, the damage is not just financial. Losing life savings can be emotionally devastating. It is crucial for the community and authorities to support victims and help them recover.
How to Stay Safe from Cyber Fraud
This case is a wake-up call for everyone. Here are some simple ways to protect yourself from online scams:
- Always Verify Information – Never share your personal or banking details over the phone or email. If you get a suspicious call, contact your bank directly through their official helpline.
- Stay Updated – Learn about common scams so you can recognize them before falling for them.
- Use Extra Security – Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and other security features on your bank accounts.
- Report Scams Quickly – If you suspect fraud, report it to the police immediately. Quick action increases the chances of catching the scammers and recovering lost money.
- Be Cautious of Urgent Requests – Scammers create panic to make you act fast. Take your time to verify before making any decisions.
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Helping Our Senior Citizens Stay Safe
As digital transactions become more common, we must ensure that elderly people are educated about online safety. Families, communities, and banks should work together to spread awareness and protect them from scams.
A Kolkata Police officer stated, “Our seniors deserve to live their later years in peace and security. We must protect them from cybercriminals who take advantage of their trust.”
The case of Manju Ganguly is a warning for all of us. Cybercrime is growing, but by staying alert and informed, we can prevent more people from becoming victims. Let’s work together to create a safer digital world for everyone.
