A large-scale cyber fraud network, dubbed 'PrintSteal,' has been uncovered in India, involving 1,800 fake websites, over 167,000 counterfeit KYC documents such as Aadhaar and PAN cards, and 156,000 fake birth certificates. The network has reportedly generated ₹40 lakh in illicit profits since 2021. The scam exploits the Indian government's Common Service Centre (CSC) initiative, using fake websites to impersonate government services and trick users into providing sensitive information. Local mobile shops and cyber cafés are often unknowingly complicit in the operation, with 2,727 registered operators involved. Authorities have identified Bihar and Uttar Pradesh as the most affected states, with 55.9% and 22.6% of fake documents detected respectively. The fraudulent network also uses encrypted communications, Telegram groups, and fraudulent QR codes to evade detection, with 600 active scam websites still operational. Experts highlight cybersecurity loopholes and urge stricter verification mechanisms, public awareness campaigns, and regular audits to combat the risks posed by digital identity fraud.
#TheNews with @maryashakil | Telangana cyber fraud crackdown: Fake call centre run in Hitech City, 63 arrested NDTV's @umasudhir reports https://t.co/8MG7wsA1sA
These fake and misleading ads(scams) with the pics of @shreyaghoshal and popular media outlets has prompted @tnpoliceoffl to issue a warning... Pls don't click any of these ads/links and invest.. #cybercrime #ElonMusk #X #Warning https://t.co/V7oMS7c8zv
1,800 fake websites, 167,000 counterfeit KYC documents: Inside India’s massive identity fraud network https://t.co/4K2u61gZi6