India’s cybersecurity watchdog warns of fraudulent payment gateways

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C) has issued an alert regarding the emergence of illegal payment gateways created by transnational organized cyber criminals. These gateways, created using mule bank accounts, are used to facilitate money laundering as a service.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is actively working to improve cyber security across the country. Recent nationwide raids by police in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh have revealed that transnational criminals have set up illegal digital payment gateways. These gateways use leased or “mule” accounts to launder the proceeds of various cybercrimes, a government press release said.

According to the report, I4C has advised citizens not to sell or rent out their bank accounts, company registration certificates or Udhyam Aadhaar registration certificates. Involvement in such activity may result in serious legal consequences, including seizure, as illegal funds deposited in these accounts are subject to scrutiny.

I4C has urged banks to conduct necessary checks to detect and prevent misuse of bank accounts and urged citizens to immediately report any incidents of cyber crime through the helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in. Additionally, following CyberDost’s social media channels can help people stay updated on cybersecurity threats and precautions.

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