Patna: In a sustained effort to curb the rising incidence of cybercrime, the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police has identified 616 mule bank accounts during 2025. These accounts were found to be actively used for routing money in cyber fraud cases. According to officials, details of the accounts have been shared with district police units for further legal action and follow-up investigations.
EOU officials explained that mule accounts are bank accounts used by cybercriminals to receive and move fraud proceeds across multiple layers to evade detection. In several instances, such accounts are obtained on commission from unemployed or unsuspecting individuals, making the money trail difficult to track and delaying enforcement action.
Four Cybercrime Accused Arrested in Begusarai
As part of the ongoing probe into organised cyber fraud networks, four accused were arrested from Begusarai district. Investigators recovered digital devices, banking documents and other technical evidence allegedly used in the commission of cyber offences. Officials said the arrests have provided critical leads into the operational structure and inter-district linkages of cyber fraud syndicates active in the state.
9,252 Mobile Numbers and 3,840 IMEI Numbers Blocked
The EOU has also coordinated with telecom service providers to block 9,252 mobile numbers and 3,840 IMEI numbers found to be linked with cybercrime activities. Police officers noted that the use of fake SIM cards, cloned devices and frequently changed handsets has become a key tool for cybercriminals. Blocking such numbers and devices, they said, is essential to disrupting fraud operations at an early stage.
Over 24.38 Lakh Calls Handled on 1930 Helpline
The annual report highlights the growing role of the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and the 1930 cybercrime helpline. Till December 15 this year, helpline operators responded to more than 24.38 lakh calls related to cyber offences. During the same period, 1.10 lakh online complaints were received concerning cyber fraud, while over 24,000 complaints related to social media abuse and other cyber offences were registered on the portal.
Enhanced Social Media Surveillance
To counter online misinformation and fraudulent campaigns, the Social Media Patrolling Unit intensified monitoring across platforms. Up to November, 356 objectionable posts were taken down following police intervention. In addition, 108 individuals were booked under relevant sections of law for posting misleading or unlawful content. Officials said particular focus has been placed on scams involving fake investments, job offers and so-called “digital arrest” frauds.
₹106 Crore Put on Hold; ₹7.36 Crore Refunded
Data compiled from cyber police stations across Bihar show that 5,624 cybercrime cases were registered during the year, leading to the arrest of around 1,000 accused. Swift coordination with banks enabled authorities to place ₹106.30 crore of suspected fraud proceeds on hold, preventing further diversion of funds. Following verification and completion of legal procedures, ₹7.36 crore was successfully refunded to victims of cyber fraud.
Cyber Slavery Desk Set Up
In response to cases where youths were lured abroad with false job promises and forced into cybercrime operations, the EOU has set up a Cyber Slavery Desk. The desk focuses on verifying overseas job agents and coordinating the rescue and repatriation of victims. According to officials, 13 victims were assisted in March and 16 in November in returning safely to India.
Senior EOU officials said that as cybercrime methods continue to evolve, the emphasis remains on strengthening technical capabilities, improving inter-state coordination and expanding public awareness to ensure more effective prevention and enforcement in the coming years.
