The Recent Iridium Scam
Iridium Scam Exposed in Tamil Nadu: The Crime Branch–Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) of Tamil Nadu recently uncovered a large-scale Iridium scam, arresting 57 individuals involved in fraudulent activities. The scam revolved around claims of possessing or selling iridium metal at exorbitant prices, often misleading investors and the public with false promises of its high market value.
Such scams typically exploit public ignorance about rare metals. The accused misrepresented iridium, a legitimate industrial element, as a scarce and high-return investment material. The CB-CID investigation aims to trace the financial network and prevent further fraudulent circulation.
Understanding Iridium
Iridium is a chemical element with the atomic number 77, belonging to the platinum group of metals. It is a hard, brittle, silver-white transition metal known for its extreme density and resistance to corrosion.
Static GK fact: Iridium is one of the densest elements on Earth, with a density of 22.56 g/cm³, slightly denser than osmium.
The metal was discovered in 1803 by Smithson Tennant, an English chemist, while studying platinum ores. Its name is derived from Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow, reflecting the colorful nature of its salts.
Industrial and Scientific Uses
Iridium plays a significant role in industrial and scientific applications due to its high melting point and chemical stability. It is commonly used in the manufacture of fountain-pen nibs, high-temperature crucibles, compass bearings, and heavy-duty electrical contacts.
When alloyed with osmium, iridium forms extremely hard materials ideal for precision instruments. Its high corrosion resistance makes it valuable in spacecraft components and medical devices.
Static GK Tip: Iridium is used in the International Prototype of the Kilogram (IPK) alloy, emphasizing its stability and non-reactivity.
Economic and Legal Implications
The Iridium scam in Tamil Nadu underscores how limited public understanding of such scientific materials can be exploited. Scammers often claim that iridium has space research or defense applications, inflating its value artificially. The CB-CID’s action is a critical step in curbing such white-collar crimes that misuse scientific terminology for profit.
Authorities have urged citizens to verify any investment linked to rare metals through authorized government or scientific agencies. The case also highlights the importance of scientific literacy in preventing financial frauds.
Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu’s CB-CID is one of India’s oldest and most efficient investigative units, known for handling complex economic and cybercrime cases.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Iridium Scam Exposed in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Investigating Agency | CB-CID, Tamil Nadu |
| Persons Arrested | 57 |
| Element Involved | Iridium (Atomic Number 77) |
| Discoverer | Smithson Tennant (1803) |
| Metal Group | Platinum Group, Transition Metal |
| Key Properties | Dense, Corrosion-resistant, Silver-white |
| Industrial Uses | Pen nibs, bearings, crucibles, electrical contacts |
| Common Alloy Partner | Osmium |
| Name Origin | From “Iris” – Greek goddess of rainbow |
| Scam Nature | Fraudulent sale and misrepresentation of metal value |
