Karnataka may witness a significant rise in registered cybercrime FIRs after the proposed implementation of the e-Zero FIR system, with officials estimating that the number of cybercrime FIRs could increase five to six times. The expected rise is linked to easier complaint registration, as the digital system aims to simplify the process for victims reporting online fraud and cyber offences.
What Is the e-Zero FIR System?
The e-Zero FIR protocol was proposed by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), which coordinates the country’s response to cybercrime.
The system is designed to make cybercrime reporting easier by allowing victims to register complaints through a digital process. Karnataka is currently working towards implementing the system, which officials believe could improve access for people facing cyber fraud.
The move is expected to reduce difficulties faced by victims who may not know which police station to approach or how to begin the FIR process.
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Why Could Cybercrime FIR Numbers Increase?
Officials believe FIR numbers may rise sharply after the introduction of e-Zero FIR because more victims could come forward to formally report cyber fraud cases.
Karnataka and Bengaluru have consistently recorded a high number of cybercrime complaints. Authorities have linked the increase to growing digital transactions, online fraud methods and greater public awareness about reporting cyber offences.
Sources said the increase in complaints does not necessarily mean cybercrime incidents alone are rising, but could also reflect improved reporting through a simpler system.
Growing Workload for Cybercrime Investigators
While the system may make reporting easier, officials have raised concerns about the additional workload on cybercrime investigation teams.
Investigators are already dealing with complex financial fraud cases where criminals move stolen money through multiple bank accounts and digital channels. Tracing transactions, freezing funds and identifying suspects often require detailed investigation.
Officials said the possible increase in FIRs would require additional resources and proper planning to ensure cases are handled effectively.
How Financial Cyber Frauds Are Being Investigated
Cybercrime officials highlighted that many online fraud cases involve multiple layers of transactions. Fraudsters often transfer stolen money through several accounts, making recovery and investigation more challenging.
The process usually involves tracking financial movements, coordinating with banks and identifying individuals involved in the fraud network.
A rise in FIR registrations through the e-Zero FIR system could provide investigators with more formal complaints, but managing the increased volume would remain a key challenge.
Different Thresholds Proposed for FIR Registration
The Centre has proposed a threshold of ₹50,000 for registering an FIR, while Karnataka has agreed to a cut-off of ₹1 lakh for department-level scrutiny.
Complaints involving losses below the threshold would continue to be treated as registered cybercrime complaints.
Officials said the final impact of the system would depend on the implementation process and guidelines issued by authorities.
Digital Reporting May Help Victims Access Justice Faster
The e-Zero FIR system could help victims report cyber fraud without delays and ensure that more incidents come to the attention of law enforcement agencies.
However, as online scams continue to evolve, citizens should remain cautious while sharing personal information, clicking unknown links or responding to suspicious calls and messages. Reporting fraud quickly through official channels can improve the chances of preventing further losses and supporting investigations.
About the author — Ayesha Aayat writes on cybercrime, digital safety, and emerging online threats. Her work focuses on public awareness, legal clarity, and technology-driven risks.
