Rising Cyber Fraud: A Growing Threat in the Digital Age

As the internet and digital payments become an integral part of our lives, the threat of cyber fraud is also increasing at an alarming rate. Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for opportunities on shopping apps, social media, and Google searches on your mobile and laptop. Just one mistake can result in lakhs of rupees disappearing from your account in the blink of an eye. In this digital era, fraudsters are not physically around you but are hiding behind the screen of your mobile device. Himachal Pradesh, along with the rest of the country, has seen a significant rise in cyber fraud cases in recent years.

Cyber Fraud on the Rise in Himachal Pradesh

In the age of Digital India, as technology reaches the masses, cyber crimes are also increasing rapidly. According to the latest data from Himachal Pradesh Police, there has been a significant year-on-year increase in cyber fraud cases. In 2023, more than 8,000 complaints were registered. This number crossed 12,000 in 2024. In just the first three and a half months of 2025, over 5,600 cases have already been reported.

Year-on-Year Increase in Cyber Fraud Amounts

Cyber fraudsters can wipe out your savings in an instant. So far, people have been defrauded of crores of rupees. In 2023, more than ₹41 crores were lost to fraud, with the cyber police managing to hold over ₹3 crores. In 2024, the fraud amount increased to over ₹114 crores, but the police could only hold about ₹11.51 crores. From January 1 to April 20, 2025, more than ₹33 crores have been lost to fraud, with the police holding about ₹6.62 crores. These figures represent the stories of thousands of people who lost their hard-earned money.

Increasing Complaints on 1930 Helpline

The number of calls to the 1930 helpline, started for complaints against cyber crimes, is also increasing rapidly. In 2023, more than 44 calls were received daily on average. In 2024, the number of calls increased to an average of 301 per day. In 2025, more than 73,000 calls have already been received by April 20, averaging 670 calls per day, with 50 to 60 fraud calls daily.

Types of Complaints Received

The calls received on 1930 are mainly divided into four categories: financial fraud, social media fraud, inquiries, and other types of calls. Financial fraud includes fake investment schemes, UPI fraud, fake shopping apps, and loan apps. Social media fraud includes ID hacking, blackmailing (sextortion), and fake profiles.

Where is Cyber Crime Most Prevalent?

Cyber fraudsters are targeting Himachal Pradesh, with Shimla, Kangra, and Mandi districts being the most affected.

Who are the Victims of Cyber Crime?

In Himachal Pradesh, men are the most affected by cyber fraud, followed by women and children. More than 78% of the victims are men.

District-wise Cyber Fraud Cases Involving Crores of Rupees

In 2025, cyber fraudsters have stolen crores of rupees from people’s accounts across various districts.

Complaints on 1930 Helpline

From January 1 to April 20, 2025, thousands of complaint calls have been received on 1930 in Himachal Pradesh, with the most complaints registered in Shimla, Kangra, and Mandi.

Easier to Hold Fraudsters’ Accounts Compared to Before

Registering more complaints on time has increased the percentage of holding the fraud amount by 17% compared to the last two years. It has become easier to hold the amount in fraudsters’ accounts, increasing the chances of victims getting their money back.

Appeal by DIG Mohit Chawla

DIG Mohit Chawla urges people to be vigilant. Do not share your bank details with any unknown call, link, or scheme. Think before every click. Greed and fear are the two biggest weapons of cyber fraudsters. If you fall victim to any fraud, call 1930 without wasting time.

There has been a remarkable improvement in the recovery rate of cyber fraud cases in Himachal Pradesh. In 2023, only 3.8% of the defrauded amount could be held, whereas in 2025, this percentage has increased to 20.3%, a 17% increase in two years.

According to DIG Mohit Chawla, the main reason for this improvement is that people are now registering complaints on time, giving the cyber cell an opportunity to take immediate action.

Appeal by DIG Mohit Chawla to the General Public

• Investigate thoroughly before investing.
• Do not fall for anyone’s influence on social media.
• Immediately report any suspicious call or link to the toll-free number 1930.

“Awareness is the biggest weapon; fraudsters succeed only when we remain silent.” – DIG Mohit Chawla, Cyber Crime