Operation FAST 2.0: Madhya Pradesh Police Cracks Down on Fake SIM Network

Operation FAST 2.0: Madhya Pradesh Police Cracks Down on Fake SIM Network

The Cliff News | Bhopal | September 21, 2026

In a significant push against cybercrime, the Madhya Pradesh Police are conducting 'Operation FAST 2.0' (Forged–Activated–SIM–Termination) across the state. The operation aims to curb cybercrimes by dismantling the supply chain of forged SIM cards.

Through this operation, police have identified and taken legal action against individuals who issued SIM cards using forged documents, Aadhar cards, photographs, and biometric information, along with Point of Sale (POS) agents and the networks facilitating these fake SIMs. Significant arrests and cases have been registered in the past month, according to a release from the Police Headquarters' Public Relations Cell.

The crackdown specifically targets gangs that misuse citizens' identity information to illegally issue SIM cards. These illicit SIMs are then used for cyber fraud, financial crimes, and other illegal activities. The operation involves extensive technical analysis and data study of cybercrimes to effectively track down suspicious SIMs and the networks behind them.

District-wise Action Details

The Madhya Pradesh Police have taken commendable steps in various districts under Operation FAST 2.0. Gwalior Police registered nine cases against sellers issuing fake SIMs. Investigations revealed these forged SIMs, issued using misused Aadhar, photos, and fingerprints, were being used in cyber fraud cases across different states, with an initial estimate linking them to approximately ₹12.20 crore in cyber fraud.

Indore Police busted a large fake SIM network, identifying 151 suspicious SIMs linked to 212 cyber fraud complaints. The investigation found that victims were defrauded by offers of wholesale jeans-pant sales or franchises, and SIM cards were subsequently provided for financial gain. One accused has been arrested in this case.

Key Arrests by State Cyber Cell and Other Districts

The State Cyber Cell, Zone Indore, arrested an individual under Operation FAST 2.0 who had fraudulently activated 101 SIM cards using his photographs on other people's Aadhar cards. The accused, working as a POS agent, misused customers' KYC documents by uploading his or others' photos instead of live customer photos for SIM activation.

In Chhatarpur, Garimalhra Police Station arrested three individuals for misusing customer documents to activate fake SIMs and providing them for use in cybercrimes. Satna Police exposed an illegal SIM porting and cyber fraud gang, arresting two individuals who were found to be supplying over 20 illegal SIMs. They have been sent to jail after being produced in court.

Tikamgarh Police took action against a network supplying SIMs for online fraud and cybercrimes, arresting five individuals. Similarly, Katni Police arrested a POS agent who issued fake SIMs in the names of two individuals and sold them to others. The accused was found in possession of 98 mobile SIMs, a biometric fingerprint machine, and three mobile phones. Another accused in this case is still at large.

Kuthla Police Station also busted a gang issuing fake SIMs by misusing Aadhar cards and fingerprints, arresting three individuals. Jhabua Police registered cases against three POS operators/agents for activating SIMs using forged documents and biometrics, with one accused already arrested.

Strict Vigilance on KYC and Biometric Misuse

The Madhya Pradesh Police, through Operation FAST 2.0, are maintaining strict surveillance on networks that procure fake SIMs by misusing citizens' identity documents and biometric information. Technical analysis is being employed to investigate the usage of these fake SIMs and their connection to cybercrimes.

The police have appealed to the public to exercise caution during e-KYC and biometric processes when obtaining SIM cards. They should personally verify OTPs and verification codes, periodically check mobile numbers issued in their names, refrain from sharing identity information or documents with unauthorized individuals, and not facilitate SIM issuance for others using their identity.

The Madhya Pradesh Police are continuously taking action to identify fake SIMs, trace their sources, and dismantle the networks involved in their use for cybercrimes.