BIDAR, 13 SEPT 

In a distressing case of cybercrime, a 31-year-old painter from Chillargi village in Bidar district of the State, Neelakanth Outi, fell victim to an e-SIM scam that has cost him Rs 8 lakh. Allegedly linked to a fraudulent PM Kisan app, the perpetrators obtained an e-SIM in Neelakanth's name, subsequently siphoning funds from his bank account.

The fraud came to light when Neelakanth's wife contacted the manager of the Union Bank of India’s Chillargi branch to inquire about a mobile number associated with his account. They were informed of numerous unauthorised transactions, including loans such as "Navi Loan," which had been recorded without Neelakanth's consent.

Upon discovering the fraud, Neelakanth promptly reported the matter to the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930. A bank statement confirmed the unauthorised transactions and fraudulent fund transfers totalling Rs 8 lakh.

The cybercrime police have launched an investigation into the incident. Neelakanth has urged authorities to trace the fraudsters, recover his lost savings, and initiate legal action against those responsible.