Hyderabad: In a significant crackdown on cyber crime, the Telangana Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (TGCSB) reported the arrest of 165 cyber criminals from various states across India over the past six months. These individuals are implicated in a staggering 3,357 cases nationwide, including 795 in Telangana alone. The arrests were made in multiple states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, New Delhi, Gujarat, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and others. The apprehended criminals were involved in a wide array of illicit activities, ranging from part-time job scams and stock trading frauds to loan frauds, hacking, cyber slavery, and sextortion. Many of those arrested played critical roles in the cybercrime ecosystem, acting as mule account holders, bank account operators, SIM card suppliers, and hackers.
A closer look at the profiles of the arrested individuals reveals a mix of backgrounds. Approximately 45 percent were graduates or postgraduates, including those pursuing degrees in B Tech, MBA, and MCA. Additionally, 34 percent were businessmen, while 21 percent were self-employed, and 9 percent were students. The age range of those arrested spanned from under 20 years to over 50 years, with the majority falling between 21 and 30 years old. Investigators noted several factors driving these individuals towards cybercrime, including the temptation of easy money, financial debts, criminal family backgrounds, and external influences.
In light of these developments, the TGCSB has issued a warning to citizens, urging them to remain vigilant and practice fundamental cyber hygiene. They advise against clicking on unknown links or sharing personal information online, reminding the public that awareness is key to preventing cyber crimes. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, authorities emphasize the importance of safeguarding personal information and staying informed about common scams and fraudulent activities. The TGCSB's recent efforts serve as a reminder that cyber crime remains a pressing issue, but collective vigilance can help combat this growing threat.