Cybercriminal Targets Even Apple CEO Tim Cook, Dupes Australian Citizen in ₹1 Crore iPhone App Development Scam!
In a shocking development, the Madhya Pradesh Cyber Cell has arrested an engineer...
prativad 
Indore, July 4, 2024: In a shocking development, the Madhya Pradesh Cyber Cell has arrested an engineer from Indore for duping an Australian citizen of ₹1 crore in a cyber fraud. The accused contacted the victim under the pretext of developing software for Apple products and then swindled him out of a partnership fee of ₹1 crore. The elaborate scam didn't stop there, the culprit even sent the victim a fake contract with forged signatures of Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Modus Operandi of the Scam:
The accused, Mayank Sharma, posed as a skilled software engineer and approached the Australian citizen, Mark Shepherd. He falsely claimed his expertise in software development for Apple products. Mayank convinced Shepherd that he directly partnered with Apple and enjoyed the backing of the company's CEO, Tim Cook.
Having gained his trust, Mayank secured ₹1 crore from Shepherd, supposedly as a partnership fee with Apple.
After pocketing the money, Mayank even sent Shepherd a fabricated contract via email, supposedly signed by Apple CEO Tim Cook, to further his deception.
Shepherd realized he had been conned when:
- He never heard from Apple.
- Mayank started avoiding him.
- Upon scrutiny, the fake contract exposed itself as part of the elaborate fraud.
Shepherd promptly contacted the Madhya Pradesh Cyber Cell, leading to Mayank Sharma's arrest.
This incident highlights the evolving tactics cybercriminals employ to dupe people. It serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution during online transactions and to avoid sending money to unknown individuals or companies, especially for hefty sums.
This case raises awareness about online scammers and the necessary precautions to stay safe in the digital age.
