Bhubaneswar: Odisha has recovered over 3.5 crore rupees from cyber fraudsters involved in financial fraud cases over the last two years, up to January 2025.
This was shared by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the state assembly on Monday.
In a written statement, Majhi said that in 2023, 1,362 cybercrime cases were reported. Among those arrested were 155 men and 8 women. The total amount stolen was Rs 47.76 crore, of which Rs 1.53 crore was recovered, and Rs 2.28 crore was frozen.
Similarly, in 2024, the number of cases increased to 1,553. 189 men and 2 women were arrested. The stolen amount was Rs 153.16 crore, with Rs 1.99 crore recovered and Rs 8.53 crore frozen.
By January 2025, 115 cybercrime cases had been reported, with 7 men arrested.
The stolen amount was Rs 20.75 crore, with Rs 30,600 recovered and Rs 59.61 lakh frozen, according to the Chief Minister’s statement in response to a question from Athagarh BJD MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that financial fraud-related cyber cases in Odisha rose by 14.02% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Similarly, CM Majhi shared a statement on the total number of financial fraud complaints received on the Cyber Helpline 1930 for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (up to January 31, 2025).
Here is the breakdown:
In this regard, Majhi mentioned that the number of financial fraud complaints received on the 1930 Cyber Helpline increased by 129.8% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Additionally, the CM shared information about the total number of financial fraud complaints received through the NCRP (National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, including 1930) for 2023, 2024, and 2025 (up to January 31, 2025). The complaints received in 2024 saw an increase of 142% compared to 2023.
Moreover, the CM also provided details about bank fraud cases in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Steps Taken by the State Government to Control Digital Fraud:
To fight the rising number of cybercrimes, the Odisha government has set up a dedicated Cyber Complex in Bhubaneswar. This complex addresses increasing cyber threats through various departments:
- Cyber Help Desk: It handles complaints and offers assistance on cyber fraud cases, including blocking financial transactions and managing bank accounts.
- Cyber Crime Helpline 1930: This helpline has been operational since 2021, offering 24/7 support for reporting cybercrimes.
- Cyber Investigation Department: The department investigates and tracks down cyber criminals across 14 police districts in Odisha.
- Cyber Investigation Support Branch: This newly established branch helps investigators collect and preserve digital evidence, especially in financial fraud cases.
- Cyber Monitoring and Coordination Department: This department collaborates with other states and agencies to track fraudulent activities and share critical information.
- Cyber Forensic Department: This unit uses advanced tools for digital investigations and trains police officers to analyze digital evidence effectively.
- Cyber Training Department: Based at the Cyber Complex, this department trains police officers and runs awareness programs in schools and colleges.
As cybercrime continues to rise, the Odisha government is committed to strengthening its efforts to combat digital fraud. With increased awareness, better training for officers, and enhanced technology, the state aims to reduce the growing menace of cyber frauds.
