WhatsApp will shut down if forced to break encryption: Company tells Delhi HC
WhatsApp told the court that it has more than 400 million users in India and they use the app largely for its privacy features.
In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Bengal Police has uncovered an intricate web of fraud involving the illegal sale of OTPs (One-Time Passwords) on WhatsApp. The alleged culprits were apprehended following a complaint filed in Murshidabad. The scam, known for its sophisticated operations, is believed to have international links, extending to Pakistan and China. The accused persons are accused of creating a network where they clone SIM cards, generate OTPs, and then sell them through WhatsApp or Telegram, facilitating unauthorized access to personal information.
The investigation began after multiple reports of mobile-based financial fraud emerged, prompting the STF to take action. The victims, primarily from Murshidabad, Hooghly and East Burdwan districts, fell prey to the scam, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals, two weeks ago.
Gaurav Sharma, a key player in the illegal trade, was arrested from Himachal Pradesh, and the STF, in collaboration with local police, executed the operation successfully. Sources reveal that Sharma sourced OTPs from various online service providers and conducted transactions using the UPI (Unified Payments Interface) method, connecting with individuals in Pakistan and China. The accused are suspected of employing SIM card cloning techniques to gather OTPs easily, exploiting vulnerabilities in the system. While some individuals were involved in SIM cloning, others focused on selling OTPs, indicating a well-coordinated effort to exploit technology. The STF is coordinating with law enforcement agencies from other states to determine the full extent of the network.
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Sharma’s arrest sheds light on the international dimension of the operation, raising concerns about the security of personal information in the digital age. The police advise caution against SIM cloning and OTP trading, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and cybersecurity measures. The investigation is ongoing and Gaurav Sharma is set to appear in the Berhampore court on Tuesday.
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