Fraudsters exploited CSR funding promises to trap an NGO worker, using fake accounts and digital manipulation in a multi-state cybercrime network
RAIGARH, CHHATTISGARH (India CSR): In a disturbing case that highlights the evolving sophistication of cybercrime in India, an NGO worker from Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, fell victim to a well-orchestrated fraud involving fake promises of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. What began as an opportunity to secure financial support for social work soon spiraled into a multi-crore cyber scam. Authorities have now arrested five members of an inter-state fraud network that used digital platforms and corporate bank accounts to siphon off funds, exposing a growing threat to the non-profit sector.
The Promise of CSR Funding: A Carefully Crafted Deception
The victim, Ayesha Parveen, a social worker based in Indiranagar, Raigarh, filed a complaint with the cyber police on March 12, 2026. According to her statement, she was introduced to two individuals—Abhay Yadav and Vijay Chandra—through a relative in December 2025. The duo claimed to represent a company interested in offering CSR funding for social initiatives.
To build credibility, they requested official documents related to her NGO’s registration. Soon after, she was introduced to two more associates, Ajay Sahu and Sachin Chauhan, who further convinced her of the legitimacy of the funding opportunity.
Key Facts Table: CSR Funding Cyber Fraud Case
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Location | Raigarh, Chhattisgarh (India) |
| Victim | Ayesha Parveen, NGO worker |
| Type of Fraud | CSR Funding Scam / Cyber Fraud |
| Total Amount Involved | Rs 2.17 Crore |
| Timeline | December 2025 – January 2026 |
| Complaint Filed On | March 12, 2026 |
| Number of Accused Arrested | 5 |
| Nature of Gang | Inter-state cyber fraud network |
| Mode of Operation | Fake CSR funding offer, bank account misuse, APK file installation |
| Platform Used | Telegram (for coordination) |
| Bank Involved | Axis Bank (NGO account opened) |
| Key Fraud Technique | Unauthorized access via APK file and digital credentials |
| Transactions Conducted | Multiple suspicious transactions over one week |
| Linked Complaints | 44 cyber fraud complaints nationwide |
| Commission Earned by Accused | 5% to 15% per transaction |
| Bank Accounts Used by Gang | 25–30 accounts across states |
| Items Seized | 6 mobile phones, 1 laptop |
| Key Locations Involved | Raigarh (victim), Guwahati (fraud execution) |
| Trigger for Detection | Bank alert for suspicious transactions |
| Current Status | All 5 accused arrested; investigation ongoing |
Setting the Trap: Bank Account and Digital Access
Under the fraudsters’ guidance, Ayesha opened a corporate bank account in the name of her NGO at Axis Bank. The accused then assisted her in setting up online banking credentials, including MPIN and login details, gaining indirect control over the account.
In a strategic move to deepen trust, the gang arranged an all-expenses-paid trip for Ayesha and her husband to Guwahati, claiming it was necessary to finalize the grant and job formalities. Flight tickets and hotel accommodations were booked, giving the operation a veneer of authenticity.
Execution of the Fraud: APK Files and Unauthorized Transactions
Once in Guwahati, two unidentified individuals posing as company representatives visited their hotel. They took control of Ayesha’s mobile phone, installed an APK file (a type of application often used to bypass security protocols), and linked it to the NGO’s bank account.
Over the course of a week, the couple was kept in the hotel under various pretexts while the fraudsters conducted multiple transactions through the compromised account. The suspects frequently accessed the phone, citing technical checks and account verification processes.
On January 12, 2026, Ayesha and her husband were sent back to Raigarh, unaware of the financial misuse that had already taken place.
Red Flags Emerge: Bank Alerts and Nationwide Complaints
The scam came to light when Ayesha received a call from her bank regarding suspicious transactions in her account. By January 14, the bank confirmed that the account was involved in potentially fraudulent activities.
Further investigation revealed that suspicious transactions had begun as early as December 29, 2025. Ayesha also received emails from multiple states indicating that disputed funds linked to cyber fraud had been routed through her account.
When she attempted to contact Vijay Chandra, he initially dismissed the concerns as a banking error but soon became unreachable.
Police Investigation: Telegram Links and Arrests
Following her complaint, the Raigarh cyber police launched an investigation that uncovered a larger inter-state cybercrime network. The accused were found to be connected via Telegram, where they coordinated with fraud gangs and supplied corporate bank accounts for illegal transactions.
Police arrested five individuals involved in the operation. Investigations revealed that Abhay Yadav had prior experience working in a bank, which helped the group manipulate financial systems more effectively.
The gang reportedly provided 25 to 30 bank accounts across different states to cybercriminal networks, earning commissions ranging from 5% to 15% on fraudulent transactions.
Scale of the Scam: Crores Transacted, Multiple Victims
Authorities confirmed that transactions worth Rs 2.17 crore were carried out using Ayesha’s account alone. Additionally, 44 cyber fraud complaints from across the country have been linked to the same account on the national cyber coordination portal.
During the arrests, police seized six mobile phones and a laptop, which are now being analyzed for further evidence and connections.
A Wake-Up Call for NGOs and Financial Vigilance
This case underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and digital vigilance, especially among NGOs and social workers who may be targeted under the guise of funding opportunities. Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting trust-based sectors like social work, using advanced tools and psychological manipulation to execute fraud.
Authorities have urged organizations to verify funding sources thoroughly, avoid sharing sensitive banking credentials, and remain cautious of unsolicited offers—especially those involving travel, downloads, or third-party access to devices.
(India CSR)
