Fraud in the name of ‘I4C’: Scammers target citizens using AI videos and fake challans

Kochi: Cyber fraudsters have begun exploiting the name of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), the central agency tasked with controlling cybercrimes in India. The scams come amid rising cases in which fraudsters use AI-generated videos of Union ministers and fake mParivahan chalans (e receipts) to extort crores of rupees.

Victims are contacted with allegations of conducting foreign currency transactions using their IP addresses or accessing websites containing child sexual abuse material. They are threatened with registered cases, arrest warrants, and court proceedings unless they pay money to settle the matter.

Fraudsters further warn that failure to respond within 24 hours will result in legal action. Police have urged citizens to exercise caution, emphasising that neither the government nor law enforcement agencies will send notices or messages demanding money. Victims are advised to report such incidents immediately to the cyber police.

With the strengthening of AI-driven digital intelligence units and digital intelligence platforms, cybercrime gangs are finding new ways to target individuals.

In a special drive under the state police’s Cyber Hand 2.0 initiative, 165 people have been arrested, 455 cases registered, 216 notices issued, and over 306 devices seized. More than 400 fake accounts have also been shut down.

About I4C

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), established under the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to prevent cybercrime in India. It coordinates investigations among investigating agencies and addresses financial frauds and cybercrimes against women and children. I4C also manages portals for reporting and investigating cyber offences and provides technical and operational support to the police.