Operation Cyber Kavach: ₹5 Crore Digital Fraud Exposed

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Odisha Police Uncover Large-Scale Digital Fraud Operation

A large-scale digital fraud operation has been uncovered in Odisha, India, with estimated losses of ₹5 crore.

Operation Cyber Kavach

The scam was busted as part of “Operation Cyber Kavach,” a statewide initiative launched by the Odisha Police to target key enablers of online fraud, including mule bank accounts, fake SIM cards, and organized cybercrime networks.

The operation was launched on the directions of Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania and will run until February 27. Special task forces have been constituted in every district, led by Superintendents of Police, and in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate, led by Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Arrests and Seizures

In the initial phase of the operation, police in Balangir district arrested two individuals and seized 29 bank passbooks, 15 cheque books, swipe machines, mobile phones, and other incriminating documents. The accused had opened bank accounts in the names of multiple individuals and siphoned off more than ₹5 crore.

In a separate case, police in Mayurbhanj district identified four individuals who used mule bank accounts for cyber fraud. The accused have been served notices, and investigations are ongoing to trace additional links in the network.

Combating Cybercrime

According to officials, cybercrime has evolved into inter-state and international operations, prompting a targeted strategy to combat the issue. The strategy includes identifying bulk SIM sellers using fake identity documents, monitoring ATM and cheque withdrawal hotspots used for cashing out funds, and coordinating with banks to scrutinize suspicious accounts.

Warning to Citizens

The police have urged citizens not to share bank details, ATM cards, OTPs, or any confidential financial information with anyone. Officials emphasized that mule accounts and fake SIMs are the primary enablers that help fraudsters move money and conceal the transaction trail.

Objective of Operation Cyber Kavach

The objective of “Operation Cyber Kavach” is to dismantle the entire cyber fraud ecosystem and strengthen digital financial security across the state. Further arrests and large-scale account freezing are likely in the coming days as part of the operation.