GHAZIABAD, July 21, 2024 — In a sophisticated cyber scam, Automotive Test Systems, a company based in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad, lost over Rs 1 crore to cybercriminals. This incident highlights the growing threat of cyber fraud and the need for stronger cybersecurity measures.
Between June 6 and July 9, 2024, cybercriminals tricked Automotive Test Systems into transferring over Rs 1 crore to fraudulent accounts through a series of phishing emails. The Cyber Scam in Ghaziabad was uncovered when the UK supplier reported not receiving the payments.
Cyber Scam in Ghaziabad Important Information
- Automotive Test Systems, Kaushambi, Ghaziabad.
- Cyber scam resulting in over Rs 1 crore loss.
- Ghaziabad; payments made to ICICI and HDFC Bank accounts.
- June 6 to July 9, 2024.
- Phishing emails led to a change in bank account details.
- Emails mimicking a legitimate UK supplier deceived the company.
Ghaziabad Crime Main Facts
The cybercriminals sent phishing emails that closely mimicked those of Automotive Test Systems’ UK supplier. These emails requested a change in bank account details, redirecting payments to ICICI and HDFC Bank accounts controlled by the scammers. The minor difference in the email addresses went unnoticed, resulting in the fraudulent transactions.
Ghaziabad Cyber Details
The scam was detected when Ramanathan Srinivas, a partner at Automotive Test Systems, sought confirmation from the UK supplier and discovered the payments had not been received.
The company promptly filed a complaint with the Cyber Police Station in Ghaziabad, leading to an investigation.
Ramanathan Srinivas stated, “We were dealing with a reputable company, and the phishing emails were so convincing that we did not suspect fraud. This incident highlights the need for enhanced verification processes.”
Ghaziabad Cyber Data and Statistics
- June 6, 2024: 47,732.32 British pounds to ICICI Bank.
- June 27, 2024: 31,212 British pounds to HDFC Bank.
- July 9, 2024: 22,637 British pounds to ICICI Bank.
Impact and Importance
The Ghaziabad cyber scam highlights the critical need for businesses to adopt robust cybersecurity practices.
Enhanced verification processes, employee education, and the implementation of multi-factor authentication are essential steps to safeguard against such fraud.
Phishing is a common cyber-attack method where attackers disguise themselves as trustworthy entities to steal sensitive information. In this case, the cybercriminals used a slightly altered email address to deceive Automotive Test Systems into transferring funds to their accounts.
The cyber scam in Ghaziabad serves as a stark reminder of the growing threats businesses face in the digital age. By adopting stringent cybersecurity measures and staying vigilant, companies can protect themselves from similar incidents. The ongoing investigation by the Cyber Police Station aims to bring the perpetrators to justice and recover the stolen funds.
