Bengaluru: Known as India’s IT capital and the country’s “Silicon Valley,” Bengaluru is facing a growing cybercrime crisis alongside its rapid digital expansion. According to police data, cyber fraudsters are siphoning off an average of ₹4.83 crore every single day in the city, triggering serious concern among citizens as well as law enforcement agencies.
By the end of November 2025, total cyber fraud losses in Bengaluru had surged to ₹1,543.41 crore. This amount accounts for nearly 75.69 per cent of the total cybercrime losses reported across Karnataka, underlining the city’s disproportionate vulnerability and its emergence as the epicentre of cyber fraud in the state.
Cases Rise, Detection Remains Alarmingly Low
Data shows that Bengaluru had registered 9,326 cybercrime cases by the end of November. However, only 716 cases have been detected so far, translating into a detection and recovery rate of just 7.68 per cent.
In comparison, Mysuru has performed even worse, with a detection rate of only 1.81 per cent, highlighting the broader limitations of cybercrime investigation across the state.
A district-wise breakup reveals:
- Bengaluru City: ₹1,543.41 crore in losses, 7.68% detection
- Bengaluru Rural: ₹49.85 crore, 6.77% detection
- Mangaluru City: ₹33.78 crore, 8.06% detection
- Mysuru City: ₹33.17 crore, just 1.81% detection
- Chikkaballapur: ₹28.13 crore, 6.81% detection
Investment Scams Emerge as Biggest Threat
Police officials say investment-related frauds continue to be the most common form of cybercrime. Fraudsters lure victims through fake stock market tips, cryptocurrency schemes and promises of unusually high returns, often operating through social media platforms and messaging apps.
Another rapidly growing threat is the so-called “digital arrest” scam. In these cases, criminals impersonate officials from investigating agencies, intimidate victims through video calls, and claim they are facing serious legal charges. Victims are then coerced into transferring money to avoid arrest.
In several instances, victims are told their bank accounts require “verification” and are asked to move funds temporarily to supposed government accounts—money that is never recovered.
Crimes Becoming More Sophisticated
Senior police officers acknowledge that as technology advances, cybercriminals are becoming more organised and technologically adept. The sheer volume of cases, lack of advanced technical resources, and the cross-border nature of many frauds have significantly slowed investigations.
As a result, detection rates have consistently remained below 10 per cent, raising questions about enforcement capacity in one of India’s most digitally connected cities.
Public Awareness Seen as Key Defence
Police and cybersecurity experts stress that public awareness remains the most effective first line of defence against cyber fraud. Citizens have been advised to:
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication
- Keep apps and software regularly updated
- Closely monitor bank transactions
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for financial activities
- Immediately report fraud to the police or the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930
Experts warn that unless investigative capacity and technical infrastructure are significantly strengthened, curbing cyber fraud in megacities like Bengaluru will remain a formidable challenge.
