LUCKNOW, July 19 -- "Hello, this is Microsoft Technical Support. Your computer has been infected with a virus." According to investigators, this routine-sounding message was the opening line of an elaborate international cyber fraud allegedly run from a Lucknow apartment, where callers used fear, fake tech support and impersonation to target unsuspecting Americans.

A day after busting the alleged international fake tech support call centre operating from two apartments in Omaxe R-02, Sushant Golf City, Lucknow Police on Saturday revealed the carefully structured modus operandi behind what they described as a sophisticated international cyber fraud network.

Deputy commissioner of police (Crime) Anil Yadav said the operation functioned li...