Cybercrime Case: Mumbai Police Detain Teen from Coffee Shop Chain
The teenager is reportedly a bright student and was pursuing a course in chartered accountancy, he said.
Mumbai Teen Detained for Hacking Coffee Shop Chain to Impress Friends
Mumbai — In an unusual case that highlights how curiosity and peer pressure can push even bright minds into trouble, a 17-year-old boy from Mumbai was detained by the Cyber Unit of the Mumbai Crime Branch for allegedly hacking into the computer network of a popular coffee shop chain.
According to police officials, the teenager — described as a brilliant student currently pursuing chartered accountancy — managed to transfer money into his friend’s gift card just “for fun.”
A Prank That Went Too Far
The boy, who reportedly learned about hacking techniques through YouTube videos, told investigators that he committed the act to impress his friends and had no intention of causing serious harm. What began as a playful experiment soon turned into a cybercrime investigation when the coffee shop chain discovered the unauthorized transaction.
The Investigation
Following a complaint from the company, the police registered a case under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology (IT) Act on September 28.
“Technical evidence and CCTV footage helped us identify the 17-year-old. He admitted to doing it for fun and to show off his skills,” a police official said.
A Lesson in Responsibility
The boy was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, which released him on a bond of good behaviour and directed him to undergo counselling with an NGO for two years. The move, officials say, aims to help the teenager understand the gravity of his actions and redirect his intelligence toward something positive.
A Wake-Up Call for Parents and Youth
While the incident may appear minor, cyber experts say it reflects a growing trend — young, tech-savvy individuals experimenting with hacking without realizing its legal and ethical implications.
Authorities have urged parents to keep an open dialogue with their children about responsible internet use. “Today’s youth are extremely talented, but they must understand that curiosity without boundaries can lead to serious consequences,” a senior officer said.
