Microsoft and CBI Collaborate to Take Down Indian Call Centers Targeting Japanese Citizens

TL;DR

Microsoft collaborated with India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to arrest four individuals and dismantle two illegal call centers involved in a tech support scam targeting Japanese citizens. This operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

Microsoft and CBI Join Forces to Dismantle Indian Call Centers

In a significant operation, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested four individuals and dismantled two illegal call centers. These centers were engaged in a sophisticated transnational tech support scam targeting Japanese citizens. The coordinated effort involved searches across 19 locations in Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh on May 28, 2025.

The Tech Support Scam

The scam involved call center operators posing as tech support representatives from reputable companies. They would contact Japanese citizens, often elderly, and convince them that their devices were infected with malware. The victims were then directed to pay for unnecessary tech support services, leading to substantial financial losses.

The Role of Microsoft

Microsoft played a crucial role in the investigation by providing technical expertise and intelligence. The company’s Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) collaborated with the CBI to identify and track the illegal activities of these call centers. This partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating cybercrime.

Implications and Future Steps

The successful dismantling of these call centers serves as a warning to other cybercriminals engaged in similar activities. It also highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and tech companies to protect citizens from such scams.

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Conclusion

The collaboration between Microsoft and the CBI in dismantling these illegal call centers is a significant step in combating transnational cybercrime. This operation underscores the importance of international cooperation and the role of tech companies in safeguarding citizens from tech support scams. As cyber threats continue to evolve, such partnerships will be crucial in maintaining cybersecurity.