New Delhi: Cybercrime remains a significant challenge for the Indian government, with alarming data shedding light on the extent of the issue. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the Cyber Crime Cell has released detailed statistics, revealing that approximately 700 people fall victim to cybercrime daily in Delhi alone, indicating a substantial increase in the last 18 months.
Daily Cybercrime Cases Exceed 700 in Delhi
In a recent statement, DCP Hemant Tiwari reported that the national capital witnesses at least 700 new cyber fraud cases every day. This data, shared during a meeting with agency editors at the PTI headquarters, underscores the growing severity of cybercrime in the region. On average, the cyber helpline number 1930 receives between 55,000 to 60,000 calls monthly, translating to roughly 1,700 calls daily. Of these, 700 to 800 are fresh complaints, signaling a worrying trend.
Financial Frauds and Miscellaneous Scams Dominate
The figures from Delhi alone are a cause for concern, suggesting a potentially more serious nationwide issue. According to DCP Tiwari, a significant portion of these calls relates to financial fraud, with 200-250 daily cases. Cybercriminals exploit victims’ ignorance, greed, and fear, transitioning traditional crimes like fraud and theft into the digital realm.
High-Profile Cases and Public Fear
One notable case involved a victim losing Rs 22 crore due to a fraudulent investment scheme promising doubled returns. Other prevalent scams include ‘sextortion,’ where victims are blackmailed over alleged sexual harassment charges, ‘digital arrest’ involving online intimidation for extortion, and frauds via matrimonial websites and false work-from-home opportunities.
Tactics and Arrests
Fraudsters often employ tactics like sending emails accusing victims of browsing illegal sites, threatening legal action. Despite the increasing cases, the cybercrime unit has made significant strides, with 180 arrests reported.
Financial Fraud Investigations
Since January, Delhi Police have investigated financial frauds exceeding Rs 500 crore, with the IFSO unit focusing on Rs 200 crore worth of cases. The unit specifically targets frauds involving amounts over Rs 50 lakh, and each police district has its cyber unit dedicated to combating this menace.
Summary Table of Key Data Points
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Daily Victims | 700+ |
| Monthly Helpline Calls | 55,000 – 60,000 |
| Daily New Complaints | 700 – 800 |
| Daily Financial Fraud Cases | 200 – 250 |
| Total Financial Fraud Investigated (2024) | Rs 500 crore |
| IFSO Unit Investigations | Rs 200 crore |
| Major Case Example | Rs 22 crore lost in fraudulent investment |
| Arrests Made | 180 |
