The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a warning regarding the illegal payment gateways set up by transnational organized cybercriminals using mule bank accounts to facilitate money laundering. Recent raids by the Gujarat Police (FIR 0113/2024) and the Andhra Pradesh Police (FIR 310/2024) have uncovered that these criminals are exploiting rented accounts to establish unauthorized digital payment systems.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the MHA is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to enhance cybersecurity across the nation. Investigations reveal that current and savings accounts are being targeted through social media platforms, primarily Telegram and Facebook, and are linked to shell companies or individuals. These mule accounts are remotely controlled from abroad, with illegal payment gateways being created for accepting deposits on fraudulent platforms, including fake investment schemes, offshore betting sites, and counterfeit stock trading platforms.
Identified payment gateways, such as PeacePay, RTX Pay, PoccoPay, and RPPay, are reportedly operated by foreign nationals and facilitate money laundering as a service. I4C has urged citizens to refrain from selling or renting their bank accounts or business registration certificates, as illicit funds could lead to severe legal consequences. Citizens are advised to promptly report any cybercrime incidents by calling the helpline at 1930 or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in, and to follow the “CyberDost” initiative on social media for updates.
