The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has unearthed a massive scam in Delhi involving fake call centres that duped U.S. citizens by posing as tech support representatives of Microsoft. The fraud, estimated at over ₹100 crore, revolved around selling counterfeit Microsoft software and extracting money from unsuspecting users in the U.S. under the guise of providing technical assistance.
How the Scam Worked
The accused set up multiple fake call centres across Delhi, masquerading as Microsoft-authorized support services. Victims, primarily from the U.S., were convinced their computers had been compromised. The scammers would then install pirated software, charge a hefty service fee, and sometimes access sensitive financial information remotely.
According to an ED spokesperson, “This was a highly coordinated international cyber fraud operation. The scale, sophistication, and targeted nature of the attacks raise serious concerns about global cybersecurity vulnerabilities.”
Locations Raided and Assets Seized
The ED conducted raids at nine premises in Delhi, including Karol Bagh and Paschim Vihar. Several people have been detained and interrogated. During the raids, officials seized:
- ₹3 crore in cash
- Dozens of high-end laptops and mobile phones
- Server data and VOIP call routing systems
- Documents related to foreign remittances and shell companies
An ED officer involved in the investigation noted, “We have found evidence of recurring transactions routed through foreign bank accounts and cryptocurrency wallets. This scam operated with a well-oiled funnel, targeting vulnerable senior citizens in the U.S.”
International Implications and Victim Targeting
This case underscores growing concerns around India-based call centres being used for cross-border financial crimes. Many of the victims were elderly U.S. citizens, scammed into paying hundreds to thousands of dollars. Some even allowed remote access to their systems, compromising their digital security.
Cybersecurity expert Rajat Taneja commented, “The danger here isn’t just financial—it’s digital trust. Once a brand like Microsoft is impersonated and used in a scam, the ecosystem suffers. Victims become reluctant to seek real help later.”
Connection to Larger Cybercrime Network
Investigators believe this call centre ring is part of a larger international syndicate with links to tech support scams in Canada, the U.K., and Australia. Preliminary data suggests that the operation may have been active for over two years.
What Happens Next?
The ED is continuing its investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case also involves coordination with foreign agencies like the FBI and Interpol to trace the financial trail and extradition proceedings if necessary.
Government Response and Cybercrime Prevention Measures
Following the raids, the Ministry of Electronics and IT issued a statement emphasizing the need for tighter regulation of call centres and cybersecurity training. Delhi Police Cyber Cell is now working in tandem with the ED to crack down on such operations.
Public advisories are also being issued across the U.S. and India to educate citizens about tech support scams.
Delhi’s Growing Reputation as a Cybercrime Hub
With over 25 cyber fraud cases involving fake tech support busted in the last 18 months, Delhi NCR is fast emerging as a major hotspot for such operations. Many of these centres hire English-speaking agents trained to mimic American accents, luring overseas victims with credible-sounding support lines.
A Wake-up Call for Cross-Border Cyber Regulation
The Rs 100 crore Microsoft scam is not just a national issue—it’s a global wake-up call. With India emerging as a digital hub, regulators and enforcement agencies must work in tandem to curb such abuse of infrastructure and talent.
Cyberlaw advocate Pooja Mahajan stated, “This case reveals how easy it is to exploit digital gaps. Unless India strengthens its regulatory backbone and implements strict licensing for call centre operations, we will continue to see such headlines.”
Victim Testimony
One of the victims, a 68-year-old U.S. citizen named Mary Thompson, shared with U.S. media, “They told me my computer had a virus, and I believed them because the warning looked real. I paid $499 thinking Microsoft was helping me.” Her case has been forwarded to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Conclusion
The ED’s action has spotlighted a deep-rooted scam that capitalized on brand impersonation, tech fear, and global digital dependency. As investigations unfold, the need for robust cross-border cooperation and consumer awareness is more pressing than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the primary targets of the fake call centers busted in Delhi?
The primary victims were U.S. citizens, many of whom were scammed into paying hundreds or thousands of dollars for counterfeit Microsoft support services.
What did the scammers pose as to dupe people?
They impersonated Microsoft tech support representatives and threatened victims with fake virus alerts or software breaches to extract payments.
How much money did these scams generate?
According to the ED, over ₹100 crore (approximately $12 million USD) was laundered through these operations.
What action has been taken by Indian authorities?
The Enforcement Directorate has conducted raids at 10 locations in Delhi, seized electronic evidence, and is pursuing money laundering charges.
How did the fake call centers operate under the radar for so long?
They used sophisticated VoIP systems, fake identities, and shell entities to mask their activities. The absence of victim complaints within India delayed domestic scrutiny.