Doctors in Telangana have lost nearly ₹30 crore to cyber fraud since September 2024, prompting the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) to intensify awareness efforts among the state’s medical community.
The figures were disclosed during a high-level cyber awareness meeting held in Hyderabad, where TGCSB Director Shikha Goel addressed representatives of major medical associations and warned of the growing threat posed by cybercriminals targeting healthcare professionals.
Doctors Among Key Targets of Cybercriminals
Addressing the gathering, Goel said cybercriminals are increasingly targeting individuals across professions, including doctors and other healthcare workers. She stressed that educational qualifications and professional success do not provide immunity from cyber fraud.
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According to officials, awareness, caution and timely reporting remain the most effective safeguards against digital fraud. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation with the medical fraternity and enhancing preparedness against emerging cyber threats.
Around 72 representatives, including presidents, secretaries, treasurers and senior office-bearers from major medical associations across Telangana, participated in the session.
Business and Investment Scams Cause Largest Losses
Officials revealed that at least 735 doctors in Telangana have fallen victim to cyber fraud since September 2024, resulting in cumulative losses of ₹29.88 crore.
Among the various categories of cybercrime, business and investment scams accounted for the highest financial losses, with 127 victims losing ₹22.39 crore. Authorities said several other fraud types have also affected medical professionals.
Reported cases included digital arrest fraud, identity theft, impersonation fraud and advertisement scams. Officials also cited job frauds, sextortion, insurance frauds, UPI scams, matrimonial frauds and cryptocurrency-related cheating among the offences reported by victims.
Bureau Urges Immediate Reporting of Fraud
The TGCSB cautioned that cybercriminals are increasingly targeting highly qualified healthcare professionals through sophisticated fraud schemes. Officials noted that professional credentials and experience do not necessarily protect individuals from online deception.
Authorities highlighted the importance of reporting cybercrime within the “golden hour,” stating that immediate complaints through the 1930 cybercrime helpline and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal can significantly improve the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions and recovering stolen funds.
Representatives from associations of paediatricians, cardiologists, dentists, orthopaedic surgeons, gynaecologists and hospitals participated in the discussions and agreed to work jointly to promote cyber awareness through hospitals, clinics, conferences and medical education programmes across the state.
