Bengaluru, once again a hotspot for cybercrime, has seen staggering losses this year. As of November 30, residents of the city have lost Rs 1,800 crore to cyber fraud, marking a 168% increase compared to 2023. Despite a slight decrease in the number of cases, the financial toll continues to rise.
The Scale of Cybercrime in Bengaluru
In 2024, Bengaluru police have registered 16,357 cybercrime cases, a significant number that averages 48 cases daily. The police have managed to freeze Rs 611 crore and recover Rs 122 crore, marking their highest recovery rate.
The surge in cybercrimes is linked to various fraudulent activities, including stock trading scams, part-time job frauds, and digital arrest schemes. These scams, often backed by cybercriminals using technology like deepfakes, have affected individuals across all walks of life.
“Digital Arrest” Scams on the Rise
One of the most alarming trends in 2024 is the rise of “digital arrests.” These scams involve cybercriminals posing as government officials, often threatening legal action to extort money. A notable case in September involved a 31-year-old product manager who lost Rs 51 lakh after falling victim to such a scam.
The number of “digital arrests” skyrocketed from 403 cases in 2023 to 1,417 cases in 2024, reflecting the growing sophistication of these frauds.
Stock Trading Scams: The Lure of Easy Profits
Stock trading-related scams are another major concern. In 2024, Bengaluru reported 3,010 such cases, a sharp rise from 1,175 cases in 2023. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting victims through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, where they promise massive returns on fake stock trading platforms.
One doctor lost Rs 1.10 crore after being lured into a fake trading scam. Such scams are evolving, with deepfake videos now being used to convince victims to invest in fraudulent platforms. In November, two Bengaluru residents lost Rs 87 lakh in a stock trading scam involving deepfake videos of industry giants like N. R. Narayana Murthy and Mukesh Ambani.
Police Efforts and Public Awareness
Commissioner of Police B. Dayananda emphasized that cybercrimes will persist unless public awareness increases. Bengaluru’s police force has ramped up efforts, not only through enhanced training for officers but also by conducting awareness campaigns. He stated,
“Prevention is better than cure,” stressing the importance of educating the public on how to protect themselves from scams.
Bengaluru Cybercrime Statistics (2022-2024)
| Year | Cases Reported | Money Lost | Money Frozen | Money Recovered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 9,940 | Rs 271.89 Crore | Rs 79.83 Crore | Rs 34.76 Crore |
| 2023 | 17,632 | Rs 673.03 Crore | Rs 306.44 Crore | Rs 68.16 Crore |
| 2024 (till Nov 30) | 16,357 | Rs 1,800 Crore | Rs 611.29 Crore | Rs 122.87 Crore |
Types of Cybercrimes in 2024
- Stock Trading Frauds: 3,010
- Part-time Job Frauds: 2,697
- Job Fraud Scams: 1,423
- Digital Arrests: 1,417
- Other Frauds: 3,298
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
- Be cautious online: Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources or unsolicited offers.
- Verify job and investment opportunities: Research thoroughly before making any financial decisions.
- Monitor accounts regularly: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for unusual activities.
- Report frauds immediately: If you suspect a scam, report it to the police as soon as possible.
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