Cyber Crime Report: Beware! QR Code Fraud on the Rise – ₹22,811 Crore Scammed, Over 1.9 Million Cases Reported

Data released by the Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) shows that in the year 2024 alone, fraud worth Rs 22,811.95 crore has been committed by cyber criminals.

New Delhi: Cybercrime is fast becoming a serious and dangerous problem in the country. With the development of technology, cybercriminals are also rapidly upgrading their methods.

According to the Dynamite News correspondent, the figures released by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C) show that in the year 2024 alone, a fraud of Rs 22,811.95 crore has been done by cybercriminals. This is the figure that has been recorded on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP).

Record-breaking cybercrime in 2024

In the year 2024, 19.18 lakh cybercrime complaints were registered on NCRP. Which is a big increase compared to 2023. In the year 2023, this number was 15.56 lakh, while in 2022 this figure was even less. Not only the number of complaints but also the financial loss is very worrying.

• Loss from cyber fraud in 2022: Rs 2,306 crore
• Loss in 2023: Rs 7,496 crore
• Loss in 2024: Rs 22,811.95 crore

Total loss in four years: more than Rs 33,165 crore

New trend of QR code scam

In recent months, cases of QR code scanning-based fraud have increased rapidly. Cyber ​​criminals trap users through fake posters, WhatsApp messages, and links. As soon as the victim scans the QR code, he reaches a fake UPI portal, from where his bank details are stolen. This method is being used extensively in India and has become a weapon that causes more damage in the shortest time.

Incidents of digital arrest and intimidation by posing as fake police

Cyber ​​​​thugs have now started scaring people and extorting money by calling in the name of a fake police officer, government official, or cyber cell. These cases are known as "digital arrest scams." In which the victim is threatened and asked to send money through UPI.

• Caution is the only protection.
• Do not click on unknown links.
• Do not share OTP, bank details, or passwords with anyone.
• Be cautious while scanning the QR code.
• Avoid WhatsApp or social media chat with unknown persons.
• Take seriously any threatening calls in the name of digital arrest or police and report it immediately.
• Do not download any unknown app or link out of greed.

Immediately register a complaint of cybercrime on www.cybercrime.gov.in.