- 3-fold increase in 5 years despite awareness campaigns
Bhopal: The key to preventing cyber fraud is awareness. It is crucial to avoid sharing personal information and refrain from clicking on links from unknown sources. Cyber crimes are rapidly increasing across the country. Recently, a case emerged involving a retired bank officer, Rakesh Kumar Jain, from Ujjain, who was defrauded of Rs 51 lakh, and another retired officer, Rakesh Kumar Goyal, from Indore, who lost Rs 39 lakh.
Despite ongoing efforts by the cyber crime branch in Bhopal to raise awareness, the number of fraud cases continues to rise daily. Data from the past five years indicates that cyber crimes have increased threefold, posing a growing challenge for law enforcement. In response, police officers have initiated daily awareness programs in schools and colleges, and they hold meetings with bank managers to enhance security measures and educate customers.
The cyber crime branch has made significant strides in helping the public, arresting hundreds of criminals and saving millions in potential losses over the past five years.
Common Methods of Cyber Fraud
Phishing: Fraudsters send fake emails or messages mimicking legitimate companies to steal personal information.
Vishing: Personal information is obtained by directing individuals to fraudulent websites.
Malware: Malicious software is installed on devices to extract personal data.
Cloning: Bank account or credit card information is stolen to withdraw funds.
Smishing: Fake messages from organizations install viruses or trojans on devices.
Emerging Cyber Crime Tactics
Cyber fraudsters threaten victims through video calls, impersonating police and claiming involvement in suspicious activities based on personal details.
Young individuals are lured with job promises and taken abroad on visas, only to be held hostage and defrauded.
Criminals digitally extort money by posing as law enforcement.
Victims are threatened with power cuts if they do not pay their electricity bills and are directed to click on malicious links. To effectively combat cyber crime, public awareness is essential. This year, the Bhopal Cyber Crime Branch has arrested 61 criminals, including individuals from various educational backgrounds. More than Rs 25 lakh of the defrauded amount has been frozen, and over Rs 30 lakh has been returned to victims.
Tips to Avoid Cyber Fraud
Do not share personal information with anyone.
Use strong passwords.
Verify the authenticity of websites and emails before engaging with them.
Regularly update your software and devices.
Avoid using public WiFi and monitor your bank accounts frequently.
Shailendra Singh Chauhan, Additional DCP Crime Branch Bhopal, emphasizes that awareness is the first line of defense against cyber fraud.
