CalicodeUpdated: Jul 17, 2023 11:24 IST
By Sibimol KG: The Kerala State Police Cyber Crime Unit has recovered lost money in a landmark case involving extortion using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The cyber operations department successfully recovered his 40,000 rupees extorted from his accusers through an AI-based fake video call. This is the first reported case of such fraud in Kerala.
Criminals used AI to trick victim Radhakrishnan by pretending to be a friend during a WhatsApp video call. The scammer claimed to resemble a former colleague of Mr Radhakrishnan from Andhra Pradesh. The impostor even mentioned the names of people Radhakrishnan knew to create a false sense of familiarity.
Claiming he was in Dubai and needed medical expenses for a relative, the scammer persuaded Radhakrishnan to give up 40,000 rupees, promising to pay him back when he returned to India. But Radhakrishnan became suspicious when the perpetrators tried to extort an additional Rs 35,000. He eventually discovered the scam after contacting his friend directly.
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Upon receipt of a complaint filed through helpline number 1930, the Cyber Operations Department of the Kerala State Police took action, leading to recovery of the amount lost from the scammers.
The perpetrator has not yet been identified.
Police are warning the public not to respond to unfamiliar video or voice calls for financial assistance. They advised to immediately report such fake calls to the Kerala State Cyber Helpline (number 1930).
