Kolkata Police bust fake call centre in Ballygunge; 19 held for duping US citizens using gift cards

Kolkata Police raided a flat on the first floor of a building at Mullen Road, Ballygunge, Kolkata-20, and arrested 19 individuals for allegedly operating an illegal call centre. The raid was conducted following credible information. Several items, including mobile phones, laptops, routers, and screenshots related to the activities of the call centre, were seized. The flat has been sealed, and a formal case has been registered at Ballygunge Police Station.

Police stated that the arrested individuals pretended to be employees of reputed companies like Norton Antivirus. They contacted foreign nationals, primarily from the USA, under the pretext of installing or updating software on their devices. Using remote access software, including AnyDesk, they reportedly gained control of victims' computers and laptops. Victims were then directed to purchase gift cards ranging from $30 to $200, which were redeemed through various vendors and credited to accounts linked to the operation.

The suspects allegedly worked in organized roles, acting as team leaders and closures to manage the fraudulent activities. According to police, all 19 individuals have been taken into custody, and investigations are underway to trace the financial flow and identify other persons involved in the operation. The seized equipment will undergo forensic analysis to gather further evidence.