Bengaluru has seen ₹1,788 crore siphoned off through six major cyber fraud categories between 2021 and September 2024, as per police data. These include:

  • Investment frauds: ₹1,187.2 crore
  • Job frauds: ₹601.23 crore
  • Courier scams: ₹165.57 crore
  • Debit/Credit card frauds: ₹116 crore
  • Phishing: ₹96.98 crore
  • Loan app scams: ₹32.25 crore

Challenges in Recovery
Only 20% of the ₹2,270 crore lost has been recovered. Investigators face hurdles like delayed reporting by victims and sluggish responses from banks, which previously took up to eight days to provide fraud-related details. Recent improvements have reduced the average response time to four to five days, but further streamlining is needed.

AI-Driven Scams
Scamsters are increasingly using AI for voice cloning and creating realistic setups for courier scams. AI-powered fraudulent investment apps have also become a significant threat.

Future Measures
The Cybercrime, Economic Offenses, and Narcotics (CEN) wing has engaged with banks and RBI officials to expedite responses. Meanwhile, awareness campaigns and improved coordination between agencies are being emphasized. While Home Minister G Parameshwara has announced plans for a dedicated cybercrime wing and DGP post, these initiatives are yet to be implemented.