Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center Warns Against Illegal Payment Gateways
The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), part of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has issued a warning about illegal payment gateways created by international cybercriminals using mule bank accounts. These gateways are being used for money laundering, according to a statement from the MHA.
Recent raids by the Gujarat Police and Andhra Pradesh Police revealed that these criminals have set up illegal digital payment systems using rented accounts. The MHA stated, “These illegal infrastructures facilitate money laundering as a service for various cybercrimes.”
The MHA, along with all Law Enforcement Agencies under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is working to ensure a cyber-secure India. Information from state police and analysis by the I4C indicates that current and savings accounts are being scouted through social media platforms like Telegram and Facebook. These accounts often belong to shell companies or individuals and are controlled remotely from abroad.
Illegal payment gateways are created using these mule accounts, which are then used by criminal syndicates for illegal activities such as fake investment scams, offshore betting, gambling websites, and fake stock trading platforms. Funds are quickly moved to other accounts once received, and bulk payout facilities provided by banks are misused. Some identified payment gateways include PeacePay, RTX Pay, PoccoPay, and RPPay, operated by foreign nationals.
The I4C advises citizens not to sell or rent their bank accounts or company registration certificates. Illicit funds in such accounts can lead to legal consequences, including arrest. Banks are encouraged to identify misuse of accounts used for illegal payment gateways. Citizens should report cybercrimes to helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in and follow “CyberDost” on social media for updates.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center -: This is a government organization in India that helps fight against cybercrimes, which are crimes done using computers or the internet.
Illegal Payment Gateways -: These are online systems used to transfer money without following the law. They are often used by criminals to hide or ‘launder’ money.
Money Laundering -: This is when criminals make illegal money look like it came from a legal source. It’s like washing dirty clothes to make them look clean.
Rented Accounts -: These are bank accounts that people let others use for a fee. It’s risky because if the account is used for illegal activities, the owner can get into trouble.
MHA -: MHA stands for Ministry of Home Affairs, which is a part of the Indian government responsible for internal security and domestic policy.
Prime Minister Modi -: He is the current Prime Minister of India, leading the country and making important decisions.
Home Minister Shah -: He is the current Home Minister of India, responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.
Helpline 1930 -: This is a phone number people in India can call to report cybercrimes or get help if they think they are victims of such crimes.
cybercrime.gov.in -: This is a website where people in India can report cybercrimes or learn more about how to protect themselves online.