Vibe & Tech

Cyber fraud is a nightmare no one should have to endure, yet it has become an unfortunate reality for many. When I fell victim to it, I hoped for justice and resolution, but the journey has been anything but smooth. In my last blog, I shared how my bank account was wrongfully leaned by the Cyber Police, leaving me helpless and in debt. Unfortunately, the situation has only worsened.

After multiple attempts to resolve the issue remotely, I was finally assigned an SHO (Station House Officer) to assist in the case. Initially, I believed this was the breakthrough I had been waiting for. However, what followed was a series of rude encounters, harassment, and mounting stress. The SHO, instead of providing guidance or offering solutions, demanded that I fly from Moscow to Hyderabad to “settle the case.” His tone and approach were far from professional, leaving me feeling more like a suspect than a victim.

The Emotional and Financial Toll

To make matters worse, my bank account remains in a dire state, showing a negative balance of ₹50,000. This is money I never authorized to be debited, yet I am being held accountable for it. As someone living abroad, far from my home country, the financial burden coupled with the constant pressure from law enforcement has been overwhelming.

I reached out to the SHO, hoping for some understanding or at least a practical solution. Instead, I was met with hostility. His lack of empathy and unprofessional behavior have made me question the system that is supposed to protect citizens. I can’t help but wonder: Is this how victims of cyber fraud are treated?

Why Must I Bear the Cost?

One of the most baffling aspects of this ordeal is the expectation for me to personally travel to India to resolve the matter. As someone who is working hard to rebuild my life and finances in Moscow, the costs of a sudden international trip are simply unmanageable. Not to mention, the lack of clarity about what this “settlement” entails only adds to my anxiety. Why am I being asked to bear the logistical and financial cost of an investigation I didn’t initiate?

A Call for Reform and Empathy

This experience has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by victims of cybercrime, especially those living abroad. The lack of streamlined communication, the absence of proper victim support, and the bureaucratic hurdles make it nearly impossible to seek justice. Instead of feeling supported, I feel punished for having been defrauded.

I believe it’s high time the authorities take a more empathetic and victim-centered approach. Victims should not have to navigate such a hostile environment to get their voices heard.

Seeking Solutions

To anyone else going through a similar ordeal, know that you are not alone. Here are a few steps I plan to take moving forward, and I hope they might help you too:

1. Escalating the Matter: If the SHO continues to harass me, I plan to escalate the matter to higher authorities within the police department and seek intervention from organizations that assist with cybercrime cases.

2. Legal Counsel: Hiring a lawyer familiar with cybercrime cases may provide much-needed clarity and advocacy in dealing with law enforcement.

3. Media Awareness: Sometimes, bringing attention to these issues through media channels can prompt action and accountability.

4. Community Support: Connecting with others who have faced similar issues can provide emotional support and practical advice.

I refuse to let this situation define me or derail my aspirations. While this journey has been far from easy, I remain hopeful that justice will prevail, and this ordeal will one day be behind me. For now, I continue to fight—not just for myself but for everyone who has ever felt voiceless in the face of injustice.

If you’ve faced a similar situation or have advice, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s build a community that empowers and supports one another in the face of adversity.