Bhubaneswar: Smarak Swain, an Indian Revenue Service officer with significant experience in financial investigations, has penned a thrilling novel titled “The Scammer’s Trail”. The book tells a fast-paced and gripping story of cybercrime unfolding in the vibrant city of Delhi. The story begins with a dramatic ransomware attack on a top medical and institute, but it soon evolves into a complex story about corruption, identity, and ordinary people trapped in systems too vast to overcome.
The novel revolves around the Null Cyphers, an elusive cybercrime syndicate that has stolen the KYC of Dr. N. Gandhi Kumar to open bank accounts and move funds. As the Enforcement Directorate investigates, the doctor finds himself entangled in a web of bureaucratic red tape. Meanwhile, N. Gamini, the protagonist, who works for a cybersecurity company in Bangalore, sets out to clear her brother’s name when he is accused of perpetrating the Null Cyphers racket.
The book excels in its portrayal of the Indian law enforcement system, highlighting the overlapping jurisdictions, agency rivalries, and hierarchical rigidity. Swain’s writing is vivid, and he creates a plot filled with intricate twists and an ensemble of characters drawn from the realms of India’s criminal justice system.
The novel provides a detailed explanation of the technology surrounding cryptocurrency and cybersecurity, making it extremely readable. However, the narration is not without its challenges, as Swain’s portrayal of sensitive issues such as adultery, suicide, and dishonesty might not sit well with every reader. Additionally, the detailed legal issues presented in parts of the book may distract from the novel’s broader thematic inquiries into the human cost of digital crime.
Despite these challenges, Swain’s nuanced storytelling, interspersed with dark humour and a deep understanding of urban India’s complexities, makes this an interesting read for thriller enthusiasts. The novel ends on a sombre note, highlighting the human cost of digital crime and the vulnerabilities inherent within digital technologies.
“The Scammer’s Trail” is a powerful social commentary that reminds us about the risks we face from an increasingly complex world. With its provocative and timely themes, this book is a must-read for those who enjoy crime thrillers and are interested in exploring the intricacies of the Indian law enforcement system.
