Karnataka Cyber Cell Busts Fake Microsoft Support Racket in Whitefield; 21 Arrested
In a major breakthrough in cybercrime enforcement, the Karnataka Cyber Cell raided a fake Microsoft support center operating in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area and arrested 21 individuals involved in a large-scale tech support racket. The fake call center reportedly targeted domestic and international users by posing as official Microsoft representatives and scamming them through fraudulent “security alerts” and fake technical support services.
The raid marks one of the largest busts in Bengaluru in recent months, reinforcing the city police’s focus on cracking down on cyber fraud networks exploiting global tech brands.
How the Fake Microsoft Support Racket Operated
According to officials, the accused ran a fully functional call center setup equipped with:
Dozens of computers
VoIP calling systems
Foreign customer data lists
Scripts designed to pose as Microsoft-certified technicians
Scammers would call unsuspecting users, warn them of supposed “malware infections,” and then charge hefty fees for fake troubleshooting services. Victims were also tricked into giving remote access to their systems, exposing them to theft of personal data.
Inside the Whitefield Raid
The Karnataka Cyber Cell conducted the raid after weeks of digital surveillance and complaint analysis. Police teams seized:
Laptops and desktops
Call logs
Scripts used to impersonate Microsoft
Financial transaction records
Spoofing software
Officials confirmed that the accused were trained to mimic authentic customer support procedures, making the scam appear legitimate to victims.
Police Statement
Authorities emphasized that such fake support scams have been increasing, especially in tech-hub areas like Bengaluru where call center infrastructure can be easily replicated. The Cyber Cell noted that the coordinated raid is part of a larger operation targeting fraudulent service centers preying on global tech users.
Impact on Cybersecurity Awareness
The incident highlights the growing need for cybersecurity education. Users are urged to:
Verify customer support numbers through official company websites
Avoid sharing financial details or allowing remote access without verification
Report suspicious calls to cybercrime helplines
✅ FAQ Section
1. What was the fake Microsoft support racket in Bengaluru?
It was an illegal call center where scammers posed as Microsoft technicians to cheat users with fake alerts and paid troubleshooting services.
2. How many people were arrested in the raid?
A total of 21 individuals were arrested by the Karnataka Cyber Cell.
3. Where did the raid take place?
The operation was conducted in the Whitefield area of Bengaluru.
4. What items were seized during the raid?
Computers, call logs, financial records, spoofing tools, and customer data.
5. How can users protect themselves from similar scams?
Always verify official support numbers, avoid unsolicited calls, and never allow remote access unless the source is confirmed.
Published on : 15TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ; Manjunath Shettar
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