Tripura Reports Significant Rise in Cyber Fraud Losses

Cyber Fraud Losses in Tripura

Anurag Dhankhar, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Tripura, revealed that residents of the state have lost a staggering ₹51.49 crore to cyber fraud since 2021. Speaking at an event focused on cybercrime on Saturday, Dhankhar noted that in 2021 alone, the losses amounted to ₹1.98 crore, which surged to ₹25.54 crore by 2024.

Despite the alarming figures, he mentioned that increased awareness among the public has led to a decline in the number of reported cases. To date, a total of 269 individuals have fallen victim to cyber fraud, resulting in the aforementioned financial losses.

Dhankhar further stated that out of the total amount lost, ₹33.84 lakh has already been recovered, and approximately ₹5.76 crore remains in 20,387 bank accounts that have been 'frozen'. He explained that cybercriminals typically employ tactics such as fake electricity and gas bills, fraudulent investment schemes, impersonating police or tax officials to obtain OTPs, online lottery scams, and hotel booking frauds to deceive victims.

He urged the public to take precautions by downloading only essential apps, setting complex passwords, and changing them regularly. The DGP also warned individuals about misleading social media advertisements related to 'work from home' opportunities.