ED Raids Fake Delhi Call Centres That Duped US Citizens of ₹100 Crore
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has raided three premises in Delhi linked to a money laundering probe against fake call centres. The operation allegedly duped US citizens by selling them pirated software disguised as legitimate products from companies like Microsoft. According to preliminary investigations, the call centres received foreign remittances worth approximately ₹100 crore between 2016 and 2025. The raids were conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) as the investigation continues.
Unpacked:
The call centres impersonated legitimate tech support, often claiming to represent companies like Microsoft. Victims were convinced their computers had issues and were persuaded to purchase and download counterfeit software, believing it was genuine and necessary for their computer’s security or performance.
The PMLA is an Indian law aimed at preventing money laundering and confiscating property derived from criminal activities. It was invoked because the proceeds from selling pirated software to foreign victims were routed as illicit remittances, constituting money laundering under Indian law.
Yes, Indian authorities have previously conducted nationwide raids targeting tech support scams, often in collaboration with international agencies and companies like Microsoft. These operations have led to multiple arrests, seizure of equipment, and the dismantling of scam call centres across several states.
Pirated software is widespread in India due to lower costs and easy availability. Companies like Microsoft conduct regular investigations, collaborate with law enforcement, and run awareness campaigns to educate consumers, while also supporting enforcement actions against distributors and call centres involved in software piracy.