Chirag Gupta
Patna: The Economic Offenses Unit (EOU) of Bihar, Patna, has been playing a pivotal role in combating cyber crimes since its formation in 2011. It serves as the nodal unit for cyber-related issues, incorporating specialized units such as the NCRP branch, Helpline 1930 call center, social media patrolling, cyber forensics, surveillance teams, and more. To address the rising incidents of cyber crime, a 24×7 NCRP Helpline 1930 call center was established in February 2023, and 44 cyber police stations were notified across the state’s districts in June 2023.
The operation of the NCRP Helpline 1930 has led to remarkable results. In 2024, till November, 73,311 cyber crime complaints were reported, of which 60,753 were related to online financial fraud. Fraudulent transactions amounting to Rs. 39,422.32 lakh were reported, and Rs. 6,616.68 lakh were held, reflecting a lien rate of 16.78%. This is a significant improvement from previous years, demonstrating the effectiveness of the call center. Additionally, Bihar has maintained a top position among states in handling cyber crime complaints and holding fraudulent amounts.
To date, Rs. 709.91 crore in fraudulent transactions has been put on hold, and Rs. 3.96 crore has been refunded to victims. Bihar ranks third in the country for registering FIRs based on cyber crime complaints, with 6,011 cases reported so far. A special cyber surveillance team has blocked 14,736 mobile numbers and 9,834 IMEIs linked to cyber crimes and analyzed mule accounts for further action by the Reserve Bank of India.
The state has also introduced Operation Cyber Prahar to arrest cyber criminals. This initiative, active since June 2024, has resulted in the arrest of 120 cyber criminals based on specialized intelligence and an additional 688 arrests by district cyber police stations. The EOU has provided technical assistance in solving 2,308 cyber cases and operates a Social Media Monitoring Unit that has addressed 419 cases, taken down 205 objectionable posts, and blocked four web pages.
To promote awareness, the EOU has conducted campaigns across subdivisions, blocks, schools, and colleges using street meetings, banners, social media, and public announcements. Since 2018, over 7,315 officers and personnel have received training in cyber crime prevention and investigation.
Looking ahead, the Bihar Police is preparing to establish a dedicated cyber division under the Police Headquarters, a State Operation Center in the EOU, and two Cyber Forensic Laboratories for scientific investigation of cyber crimes. Plans for a Cyber Commando Wing, in collaboration with the Home Ministry, are underway, with candidates undergoing screening for specialized training at IITs and NITs.
A memorandum of understanding has been signed with C-DAC Patna to establish a Research and Development Center within the EOU, focusing on developing cyber forensic tools and applications. The government has also approved the creation of 405 posts to strengthen cyber units across the state. Additionally, the procurement of advanced hardware and software is in progress to enhance the cyber forensic capabilities of the police force.
