Bengaluru Hacker Case Exposes Rs. 2 Crore Cyber Extortion Using Poker Hacking and Crypto Fraud: ED Tightens Action
The Bengaluru hacker case has taken a serious turn as the Enforcement Directorate opposed the bail request of businessman Sunish Hegde. The agency said Hegde worked with hacker Srikrishna, also known as Sriki, in a Rs. 2 crore cyber extortion plan which also has a crypto link.
Officials said Hegde asked Sriki to hack online poker websites and then use the data to demand money. The hacker reportedly broke into platforms like PokerSaint and PokerBaazi during the operation.
After the hack, Hegde allegedly contacted the companies and offered help to fix the issue. Investigators said he demanded money as a “repair fee,” which was part of a planned cyber extortion move.
The agency told the court that Sriki gave a statement under the law and clearly named Hegde. Officials said such statements are valid evidence and play an important role in the case.
Money Trail and Laundering Allegations
The probe found that the total amount involved was around Rs. 2 crore. This included cash, cryptocurrency, and casino chips. Authorities said part of the money moved through accountant Robin Khandelwal, who helped transfer funds.
Investigators also said the money supported a luxury lifestyle for the accused and their close circle. The agency believes the group used different methods to hide the source of funds, which points to money laundering.
The court has extended the judicial custody of Hegde, Sriki, and Khandelwal for 15 days. The bail hearing for Hegde will continue soon. His legal team claimed poor health and lack of proof, while the agency said strong evidence exists.
Wider Crypto Fraud Links Under Investigation
The Bengaluru hacker case also connects to a larger network. Officials are checking links between Sriki and several known people who may have gained from earlier crypto fraud activities.
Reports also said Sriki held a large amount of Bitcoin at the time of his earlier arrest. This raised concerns about the scale of digital crimes in the case.
The Bigger Picture for Cybersecurity
The Bengaluru hacker case shows how hackers and businesses can work together for cyber extortion. Online gaming and crypto platforms face higher risks now. Authorities may increase checks on digital money and security systems to stop such crimes.
The investigation also looks into possible misconduct by some officials linked to earlier cases. This adds more depth to the ongoing probe.
The case shows how cybercrime, crypto fraud, and money laundering now connect closely. Agencies continue efforts to break such networks and recover illegal money.
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