Punjab Cyber Fraud Cases Exceed ₹740 Crore as Cybercrime Complaints Surge

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Punjab has witnessed a significant rise in cyber fraud cases, with financial losses exceeding ₹740 crore, according to recent data.

Surge in Cybercrime Reports

Cybercrime complaints submitted through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal in Punjab have increased significantly over recent years, with a sixfold rise between 2021 and 2024. The number of reported cases grew from 7,430 in 2021 to 49,200 in 2024, while an additional 29,143 complaints were recorded during the same period. This surge highlights the escalating prevalence of digital offenses in the state.

The trend shows a steady upward trajectory, with 22,690 complaints in 2022 and 33,067 in 2023 before reaching 49,200 in 2024. The most dramatic increase occurred between 2021 and 2022, when the total more than tripled. By 2024, Punjab averaged approximately 135 daily cybercrime reports, a figure that rose to nearly 161 per day during the first half of 2025.

Financial Losses and Investigations

Financial losses linked to cyber fraud in Punjab have also reached substantial levels. Data from the Ministry of Home Affairs, presented in the Rajya Sabha on March 12, 2025, revealed that 75,087 cyber fraud incidents were reported on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal by February 28, 2025. The total value involved in these cases amounted to ₹740.93 crore. Law enforcement agencies managed to freeze or place a lien on approximately ₹101.51 crore of the funds.

The reported cases encompass a range of fraudulent activities, including fake investment schemes, UPI-based scams, “digital arrest” frauds, impersonation of law enforcement and government officials, social media-based deception, and other digital crimes. Authorities clarified that submitting a complaint via the NCRP does not automatically trigger a First Information Report (FIR) or confirm the commission of a crime. Each case undergoes scrutiny by investigative agencies, which determine whether formal action is warranted.

E-Zero FIR System and Case Handling

Punjab Police implemented an e-Zero FIR system in July 2026 for cyber financial fraud cases exceeding ₹5 lakh. Complaints submitted through the NCRP or the 1930 cybercrime helpline are automatically converted into e-Zero FIRs and forwarded to the relevant cybercrime police station via the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems. Cases involving fraud of ₹1 crore or more are escalated to the State Cyber Crime Police Station in Mohali for specialized investigation.

Data from Punjab Police’s Cyber Crime Wing in October 2024 indicated that Mohali, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, and Amritsar were the districts with the highest volumes of cybercrime complaints. Authorities continue to urge prompt reporting of cyber financial fraud through the 1930 Cyber Crime Helpline and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Early reporting enhances the likelihood of freezing fraudulent transactions before funds are dispersed across multiple bank accounts or digital wallets.

Reporting Mechanisms and Public Awareness

The NCRP, managed by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, serves as the primary platform for reporting cyber offenses, while state police agencies handle investigations and FIR registration. The data underscores a growing reliance on digital channels for reporting suspected cybercrime. As complaint numbers rise, officials emphasize the importance of timely reporting and public awareness in mitigating online fraud.

Authorities clarified that submitting a complaint via the NCRP does not automatically trigger a First Information Report (FIR) or confirm the commission of a crime. Each case undergoes scrutiny by investigative agencies, which determine whether formal action is warranted.