Five Bandhan Bank Employees Arrested in ₹2.47 Crore Cyber Fraud Case Spanning West Bengal and Jharkhand
Fraudsters used leaked customer data to run fake KYC and deposit scams, say cyber crime officials
Kolkata, August 25, 2025 — In a major breakthrough in a growing financial cybercrime investigation, the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing has arrested five employees of Bandhan Bank for allegedly leaking sensitive customer data, which was later used to defraud clients of over ₹2.47 crore across West Bengal and Jharkhand.
According to officials, the arrested staff members illegally accessed the bank’s core banking system and sold confidential customer information—including contact details, account numbers, and transaction history—to fraudsters. These fraudsters then posed as bank representatives and tricked unsuspecting customers into sharing OTPs or transferring money under the pretext of updating Know Your Customer (KYC) details or investing in high-return deposit schemes.
Sophisticated Scam Using Insider Access
Investigators say the scam was sophisticated and meticulously planned. “The arrested employees played a crucial role by providing direct access to the bank’s database. This insider breach is what made the fraud so successful,” said a senior officer with the cyber crime unit.
Victims were reportedly contacted via phone calls, emails, and even SMS—often mimicking the language and branding used by Bandhan Bank—making the scams appear legitimate.
Operation Spanning Two States
The fraud network operated across multiple districts in West Bengal and Jharkhand. Police said the illegal transactions were spread over the past six months, and the stolen funds were routed through multiple accounts to avoid detection.
Authorities are now tracing the financial trail and have frozen several bank accounts connected to the accused.
Bandhan Bank Responds
Bandhan Bank has issued a statement saying it is cooperating fully with the investigation and has already taken disciplinary action against the involved employees. The bank has also assured customers that additional security measures are being implemented to prevent such breaches in the future.
“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are committed to protecting our customers’ data. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure swift action,” a Bandhan Bank spokesperson said.
Growing Concern Over Banking Cybercrimes
This case highlights a growing trend of cybercrimes involving insider participation within financial institutions. Experts warn that with increasing digital banking adoption, financial institutions must strengthen internal monitoring and data security protocols.
Police Urge Caution
Police have urged customers to stay alert and never share personal banking details or OTPs over phone calls, emails, or messages, even if the caller claims to be from the bank.
The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are likely in the coming days.
