Tripura has increasingly become a target for cybercriminals, mirroring a nationwide surge in digital scams. According to state police, fraudsters have siphoned off Rs 51.49 crore from citizens since 2021 by deploying a wide array of techniques — from fake apps and phishing calls to impersonation scams involving utility services and investment schemes.
DGP Anurag, speaking at a recent workshop on cybercrime awareness, underscored how criminals drain the savings of unsuspecting citizens by exploiting trust and lack of awareness. He noted that Tripura Police, through swift investigations, has managed to recover Rs 33.84 lakh so far, with expectations of more funds being retrieved in the coming months.
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The Techniques Behind the Fraud
Investigators revealed that fraudsters often rely on “mule accounts” — using bank accounts of poor individuals in exchange for small commissions, which allow large-scale laundering. Other tools include SIM cards, VPNs, and fake IDs used on platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to lure victims into scams.
In some cases, criminals staged “digital arrests” or manipulated people into paying large sums under fabricated threats. Many victims delayed reporting, a factor that gave scammers additional time to move stolen funds beyond the reach of authorities.
Escalating Losses Over the Years
Data indicates an alarming year-on-year rise. In 2021, reported fraud stood at Rs 1.98 crore. This figure more than doubled to Rs 4.62 crore in 2022 and climbed further to Rs 9 crore in 2023. By 2024, losses had reached Rs 25.54 crore. In just the first half of 2025, Rs 9.77 crore has already been reported stolen.
Officials credit recent awareness campaigns with curbing an even steeper rise. Citizens, they say, are becoming more cautious, but the sophistication of rackets remains a persistent challenge.
Police Push for Awareness and Vigilance
Tripura Police has urged citizens to practice strict cyber hygiene: avoiding suspicious links, verifying unsolicited calls, and securing accounts with strong passwords. The DGP emphasized that immediate reporting is crucial. Victims are encouraged to dial 1930 or 112 or approach local police stations to halt fraudulent transactions at an early stage.
“Immediate information can make the difference between recovering stolen money and losing it forever,” said the DGP.
With over 20,000 bank accounts worth Rs 5.76 crore already frozen, authorities are working with financial institutions to trace and reclaim diverted funds. The battle against cybercrime, however, continues to demand vigilance from both citizens and law enforcement.