According to recent statistics, the city recorded a staggering total of 7,263 cybercrime cases
OdishaPlus Bureau
The Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has reported a significant and concerning rise in cybercrime incidents in Bhubaneswar for the year 2024. According to recent statistics, the city recorded a staggering total of 7,263 cybercrime cases, marking a dramatic 50% increase from the 4,832 cases that were documented in the previous year, 2023. This alarming escalation in cybercrime has been closely associated with a notable surge in both financial fraud and social media-related scams, highlighting the evolving nature of criminal activities in the digital landscape.
Among the various types of cybercrime reported, a substantial portion—2,653 cases—pertained specifically to financial fraud. This category encompasses a range of deceptive practices aimed at unlawfully obtaining money from unsuspecting victims. Additionally, 1,872 cases were linked to UPI (Unified Payments Interface) transaction fraud, which has become increasingly prevalent as digital payment methods gain popularity. Furthermore, 781 incidents involved credit and debit card fraud, while 1,076 cases were related to fraudulent activities on social media platforms, where criminals exploit personal information to deceive individuals.
The financial impact of these cyber offenses has been staggering, with criminals managing to defraud victims of a total of Rs 82.53 crore. This significant monetary loss not only affects individuals but also poses a broader threat to the economic stability of the community. In light of this troubling trend, the Commissionerate Police have taken proactive measures to combat cybercrime.
They have filed 322 First Information Reports (FIRs) and successfully apprehended 38 individuals suspected of being involved in these cybercriminal activities. Notably, 20 of these apprehended suspects were identified as being from outside the state, indicating that cybercrime is not confined to local perpetrators but may involve organized networks operating across regions.
Despite these efforts, the continued rise in cybercrime incidents underscores an urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity protocols and greater public awareness initiatives. It is imperative for citizens to be educated about the potential risks associated with online activities and to adopt safer practices to protect themselves from becoming victims of cyber fraud.
The Commissionerate Police, along with other stakeholders, must prioritize the development of comprehensive strategies aimed at safeguarding the community against the ever-evolving threats posed by cybercriminals. This includes not only law enforcement actions but also collaborative efforts with technology experts, educational institutions, and community organizations to foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience.
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