Maharashtra Cyber Fraud Surges to Rs.7,634 Crore in 2024, Pune Tops Financial Losses
Pune Cyber Fraud: Man arrested in Rs 2,52,96,406 fraud case with links to cyber gangs in Pakistan And Dubai
Cyber fraud has emerged as a major threat in Maharashtra, with financial scams reaching ₹7,634 crore in 2024. A total of 8,947 cybercrime cases were registered across the state, showing a sharp rise in digital fraud.
Pune recorded the highest financial losses of ₹6,707 crore, while Mumbai reported the most cases at 4,849. This data was revealed in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly during the budget session.
Despite the massive losses, arrests remain low. In Mumbai, ₹888.29 crore was lost, but only 757 suspects were caught. Thane reported 680 cases with losses of ₹174.04 crore, leading to just 13 arrests. Nagpur recorded 212 cases, with frauds worth ₹63.85 crore, but only five suspects were apprehended. Pune saw 1,504 cases but shockingly, just nine arrests.
Several MLAs, including Mohan Mate, Jyoti Gaikwad, Vikas Thakre, Amin Patel, and Sunil Prabhu, raised concerns over rising cyber fraud. They highlighted that common citizens are being targeted through fake investment schemes, phishing, and digital payment fraud.
Cybercriminals are using advanced tactics like fake calls from banks, fraudulent schemes, and phishing attacks to steal financial data. The lack of tracking mechanisms makes it difficult for law enforcement to curb such crimes.
To tackle cyber fraud, Maharashtra has 50 dedicated cyber police stations. A Centre of Excellence in Digital Forensics has been set up in Pune to improve fraud analysis.
CM Devendra Fadnavis announced that the Maharashtra Cyber Security Project is in its final phase. The project will create a centralized framework for tackling cyber threats, improving coordination, and increasing public awareness. A nodal cyber police station and six specialized cybercrime departments will be established.
While the government is taking steps, experts stress that public awareness is key. Citizens must stay cautious during online transactions, avoid sharing sensitive information, and report suspicious activities to the cybercrime helpline.
The rising cyber fraud cases highlight the urgent need for stronger enforcement and preventive measures to protect people from digital scams.
