Hyderabad: A Hyderabad based company CEO lost Rs 1.20 crore in a WhatsApp impersonation cyber fraud. Cyber criminals allegedly posed as the CEO and convinced the company accountant to transfer funds. The victim later approached the Cyber Crime Police.
The CEO is the wife of a former Director General of Police rank official. However, the report did not disclose the names. Meanwhile, the fraud took place earlier this month through WhatsApp messages sent to the company accountant.
WhatsApp Impersonation Cyber Fraud Targets Company Accountant
According to reports, the fraudsters used the CEO’s photo as a display picture. They contacted the accountant and asked him to transfer Rs 1.20 crore. They claimed the CEO was busy in a meeting and could not speak.
Believing the request was genuine, the accountant transferred the money. The amount went to several bank accounts shared in the messages. Later, on March 17, the fraudsters again sent messages asking for more transfers.
However, the accountant decided to confirm the request. He contacted the CEO directly. Then he learned she had not sent any such messages. Therefore, he understood that cyber criminals had cheated the company.
Police Register Case After Hyderabad Cyber Fraud Complaint
The accountant informed the CEO about the earlier transfer. He said he had already sent Rs 1.20 crore based on the WhatsApp request. The CEO denied sending instructions. Then they identified the fraud.
They filed a complaint at the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police Station. Police registered a case. Officers also began an investigation into the bank accounts used in the fraud. However, officials have not shared further details.
Cyber fraud through impersonation messages has increased in recent times. Fraudsters often misuse profile photos to gain trust. Therefore, experts advise companies to verify financial instructions through direct calls.
The case highlights the risks of WhatsApp impersonation fraud. It also shows the need for internal verification systems. Meanwhile, the investigation continues to trace the accused and track the transferred funds.
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