Patna: Bihar Police have prevented losses of Rs 65.79 crore in 11 months, saving 70,000 individuals from cyber fraudsters. This significant recovery comes amid a rise in cybercrime incidents across the state.
Financial fraud in Bihar reached Rs 394 crore by November this year. However, police intervention, primarily through the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) and cyber police stations, successfully blocked the transfer of a substantial portion of the fraudulent funds.
“Cybercriminals were unable to transfer 16.65% of the total fraudulent amount to their accounts,” a police official stated. This represents a significant increase compared to 2022, when 11.81% of fraudulent funds were recovered.
“Power Cut” Scam Targets Consumers
One common modus operandi employed by cybercriminals involves exploiting consumer fears. Fraudsters pose as electricity department officials, threatening to disconnect power supplies due to outstanding bills or the need for meter upgrades. This tactic has already resulted in losses of Rs 10.59 lakh for seven individuals.
Victims Include Government Employees
Notable victims include Adil of Pirbahore (Rs 2.49 lakh), Rakesh Ranjan of Nehru Nagar (Rs 2.10 lakh), Raghuveer Sah of Rupaspur (Rs 2 lakh), Raju Kankarbagh (Rs 1.49 lakh), Constable Khushboo Kumari (Rs 99,670), Shweta Khemnichak (Rs 89,000), and Sita Gupta of Boring Road (Rs 62,789).
To minimize the risk of falling victim to cybercrime, authorities advise the public to:
- Call the cybercrime helpline number 1930 immediately.
- Report incidents online through the NCRP portal.
- File a report at the nearest police station or cyber police station.
- Inform their bank about any suspicious transactions.
