Five Arrested in Palghar for Operating Fake Call Centre Targeting US Citizens

Palghar Police arrested five individuals operating a fake call centre from a residential flat in Palghar West, Maharashtra, targeting US citizens through cyber fraud. The accused posed as tech support representatives from companies like Microsoft and Apple, falsely claiming victims' devices were infected. They coerced victims into buying gift cards, converting payments into cryptocurrency and cash via hawala channels. Police seized electronic equipment worth approximately Rs 5.72 lakh and registered cases under relevant laws. The accused hail from different states and are in police custody until February 28.