Srinagar, Jan 15 (JKNS): Highlighting the alarming rise in cybercrime, Senior Superintendent of Police, Cyber Investigation Centre for Excellence (CICE), Ramesh Gupta on Thursday said that over 18,000 cyber fraud complaints were registered across India in 2025, including a significant number from Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that timely reporting remains the most effective tool for recovery of stolen funds.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, as per news agency JKNS, SSP Gupta said that while cyber fraudsters stole crores using online scams, impersonation, and fake investment offers, timely reporting and swift action helped the authorities recover ₹32.64 crore, nearly 18 percent of the total defrauded amount.
“The first few minutes after a cyber fraud are critical. If a complaint is lodged within the golden hour, the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions increase manifold,” Gupta said, urging citizens to immediately call the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or report via https://cybercrime.gov.in.
Gupta highlighted a disturbing rise in so-called “digital arrest” scams, where victims receive fake calls claiming they are under police investigation or that narcotics were found in parcels sent in their name.
“There is no such thing as a ‘digital arrest’ in law. The moment someone claims this or demands money for bail or investigation, understand it’s a fraud. Disconnect the call and report it immediately,” he cautioned.
He said scammers are increasingly exploiting human psychology and social media behaviour, studying online activity to target people looking for jobs, friendships, or investment opportunities.
“A hacker doesn’t hack your phone — he hacks your mind,” Gupta said. “They use social engineering to exploit emotions like fear, greed or trust.”
The officer warned against fake online job portals, fraudulent investment groups on WhatsApp and Telegram and apps promising to double or triple money, noting that many such platforms use government officials’ photos to appear credible.
Gupta also revealed a surge in malware-based attacks, often spread through APK files or malicious QR codes disguised as legitimate offers like “free Wi-Fi for a week.”
“Do not click on suspicious links or install unknown applications. One click can hand over your phone access, bank details, and personal data to criminals,” he warned.
The SSP advised citizens to regularly check for linked devices on WhatsApp, verify fake SIMs issued in their name through the government’s Sanchar Saathi portal, and avoid public charging ports due to “juice jacking” — where malware is installed through USB connections.
Explaining the importance of the 1930 helpline, Gupta said it is directly integrated with banks and financial institutions, enabling police to freeze fraudulent transactions in real time.
“Helpline 1930 is India’s cyber lifeline. As soon as a complaint is filed, we can put a lien on the fraudster’s account and save victims’ money within the golden hour,” he said.
The officer also urged people to make cyber safety a community movement, saying every citizen has a role in creating a “safe digital environment.”
“Cybercrime thrives on fear and hesitation. Awareness, vigilance, and prompt action are our strongest shields. Report immediately—don’t feel embarrassed,” Gupta said.
He reaffirmed that CICE teams operate round-the-clock, coordinating with banks, tech platforms, and law enforcement agencies to trace criminals and block mule accounts used to launder stolen funds.
“As digitalisation grows, so does cybercrime. But informed citizens can turn the tide. Our aim is a digitally safe Jammu and Kashmir and a safer India,” Gupta added.—(JKNS)
