In recent months, Bengaluru residents have faced a growing threat from cyber fraud, resulting in significant financial losses. This blog post delves into the data, revealing a daily loss of Rs 1.7 crore over a nine-month period. Let’s explore the various online scams, law enforcement efforts, and what you can do to stay safe in the digital age.
The city recorded an all-time high of 12,615 cybercrime cases between January 1, 2023, and September 20, 2023. This surge in cybercrime has raised concerns and calls for collective action to safeguard residents.
Online Job Frauds: Rs 204 Crore in Losses
Online job frauds have been particularly devastating, accounting for a staggering Rs 204 crore in losses from January to September 2023. Scammers lure victims with the promise of remote work and enticing online job opportunities. They persuade individuals to perform tasks and, in some cases, demand payments to release supposed earnings.
Recovery Efforts: Rs 7.6 Crore Returned to Victims
Out of the total loss, Rs 73 crore was frozen, and law enforcement successfully recovered Rs 73,490,991. Notably, the police managed to return over Rs 7.6 crore to the victims. Earlier this year, a massive cyber fraud operation worth Rs 854 crore was dismantled, resulting in the arrest of six individuals involved in an investment scheme that defrauded many across India.
Rise in Cybercrime Cases: A Glimpse of the Numbers
City police data reveals that between 2017 and May 31, 2023, more than 50,000 cybercrime cases were registered in Bengaluru. Astonishingly, 41% of these cases (20,662) were related to QR codes, links, or the unauthorized use of debit/credit card information to divert money from victims’ bank accounts. In the first half of this year, more than 7,000 cases have been registered, with 950 associated with QR code scams.
Diverse Cyber Threats: Beyond Online Job Frauds
Since January, the city has witnessed 277 cases related to loan apps, 195 cases of bitcoin-related fraud, and 84 sextortion cases, resulting in a collective loss of more than Rs 24.62 crore. Impressive efforts by the police have led to the recovery of Rs 74,13,195 and the return of Rs 58,20,801 to the victims in these cases.
Conclusion:
Bengaluru’s battle against cybercrime is ongoing, and the numbers paint a grim picture. While the police are actively pursuing fraudsters and assisting victims, it’s crucial for citizens to be proactive in protecting themselves. Cybersecurity awareness, caution while sharing personal information, and reporting suspicious activities can all contribute to making Bengaluru a safer digital space. Together, we can collectively reduce the impact of cybercrime and protect our digital assets.