Hyderabad Police Commissioner Sajjanar warns senior citizens about hybrid cyber crimes targeting their bank accounts through phone theft and fraud
Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has warned citizens about a sophisticated crime wave where thieves steal smartphones to access banking apps and empty accounts. The gangs use social engineering and observation to bypass security measures on stolen devices.
Why it matters
As digital banking adoption grows, this highlights the critical need for cybersecurity awareness among vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.
Hyderabad City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar, has cautioned residents about a new breed of organised crime that combines old-fashioned pickpocketing with sophisticated cyber fraud, warning that gangs are systematically targeting senior citizens and those with limited technical knowledge to empty their bank accounts.
Mr. Sajjanar said investigations by the Hyderabad Cyber Crime wing have led to the arrest of three accused and five mobile phones have been recovered from them.
According to police, the gangs operate in a well-planned, multi-stage manner. Members first identify elderly or unsuspecting victims using smartphones at bus stands, railway stations, crowded RTC buses and other public places, quietly observing how they unlock their screens using a pattern, PIN or password. They then distract the victim and steal the phone from their pocket or bag.
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