CALL CENTER-BASED SCAM OPERATIONS: INVESTIGATING CYBER FRAUD NETWORKS
AUTHOR – MUKUL TARE & PRATHMESH NAIK,
2ND YEAR BALLB STUDENTS AT KES SHRI JAYANTILAL H. PATEL LAW COLLEGE
BEST CITATION – MUKUL TARE & PRATHMESH NAIK, CALL CENTER-BASED SCAM OPERATIONS: INVESTIGATING CYBER FRAUD NETWORKS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (5) OF 2026, PG. 54-61, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
ABSTRACT
The rapid growth of digital communication and global connectivity has significantly changed the nature of crime, leading to the rise of complex cyber frauds. Among these, call-centre-based scams have emerged as a major and highly organized threat, often operating across national borders. These scams typically involve fake call centres that impersonate trusted entities such as banks, government agencies, or technical support services to trick individuals into sharing sensitive information or transferring money. This paper examines the structure and functioning of such scam operations in India, highlighting how they have evolved into large-scale, organized networks supported by advanced technologies like VoIP, caller ID spoofing, and cloud-based systems. It also analyses the step-by-step modus operandi of these scams, including victim targeting, psychological manipulation, and money laundering techniques. Further, the study explores the legal framework in India, focusing on the role of the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, along with telecom regulations and enforcement mechanisms. It also discusses the practical challenges faced by authorities, such as cross-border jurisdiction issues, technological anonymity, and gaps in enforcement. Through recent case studies and comparative analysis, the paper demonstrates that call-centre scams are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, organized cybercrime ecosystem. It concludes by emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach involving stronger regulation, improved enforcement, international cooperation, and increased public awareness to effectively tackle this growing threat.