In a major international cybersecurity crackdown, Microsoft has partnered with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to dismantle several illegal call centers in India that were behind a widespread tech support scam targeting Japanese citizens.

The coordinated operation led to the raiding of multiple call centers across India, revealing a sophisticated scam network that impersonated Microsoft support representatives. The fraudsters would deceive unsuspecting Japanese users into believing their devices were compromised, then coerce them into paying for fake technical support services.

According to Microsoft’s Cybercrime Investigation Team, this scam had been active for years and had defrauded thousands of Japanese victims. Victims were typically lured through fake pop-up alerts or misleading search engine ads, which directed them to call what they believed were official Microsoft helplines. Once on the line, operators would manipulate the victims using technical jargon and social engineering tactics to gain remote access to their computers and demand payments for unnecessary or non-existent repairs.

Microsoft’s Digital Crimes Unit collaborated closely with CBI by providing intelligence, digital evidence, and technical support, which proved instrumental in tracing the scam to its origin. The company has been working globally to disrupt tech support fraud networks, having already assisted in dismantling similar operations in the United States, Europe, and other parts of Asia.

“This successful operation underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in the fight against cybercrime,” said a Microsoft spokesperson. “We are committed to protecting users worldwide and holding cybercriminals accountable.”

The CBI has confirmed the arrest of several suspects, seizure of digital equipment, and the freezing of bank accounts linked to the operation. Authorities are now working with Japanese law enforcement to assist affected victims and recover stolen funds.

The case is a stark reminder of the growing global nature of cyber fraud, often spanning borders and exploiting trust in reputable brands like Microsoft. It also highlights the importance of cyber awareness and vigilance, especially among vulnerable users.

Microsoft has urged users to remember:

• Microsoft will never proactively reach out to offer unsolicited tech support.
• Genuine Microsoft pop-ups will not request personal or financial information.
• Users should report suspicious activity via the company’s support and fraud reporting portals.

As investigations continue, both Microsoft and the CBI reaffirm their commitment to dismantling cybercrime syndicates and protecting digital citizens worldwide.

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