Aizawl, April 8: Mizoram has emerged as the cybercrime hotspot of Northeast India, particularly for online banking fraud. A staggering 56.38% of all cybercrime cases registered in the state between January 2020 and March 11, 2024, were related to financial fraud, according to data from the state’s cybercrime police station.
Out of 321 total cybercrime cases, 181 involved online financial scams. Other major categories included 70 cases of online sexual harassment, 32 cases of identity fraud, 16 cases of child pornography, nine cases related to social media, seven cases of copyright infringement, five cases of rumor-mongering, and one case of hacking.
Cybercrime Peaks in 2022
The highest number of financial fraud cases—107—was reported in 2022. That year also saw Mizoram record its highest-ever cybercrime cases at 185, followed by 72 in 2023. So far in 2024, the number has decreased to 41, with 17 cases of financial fraud and 15 related to sexual harassment.
Despite law enforcement efforts, cybercriminals continue to target Mizoram’s residents, often using phishing scams via text messages, fake mobile applications, and social engineering tactics.
Why are Mizoram residents a target?
Cybercriminals often take advantage of the low awareness about online scams in Mizoram. One of the most common fraud methods involves impersonation of Armed Forces personnel, where scammers use fake ID cards and Armed Forces Canteen cards to gain the trust of victims before defrauding them.
Where do these scammers operate from ?
According to Mizoram police, many cybercriminals operate from outside the state, particularly from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chandigarh.
“The cybercriminals specifically target people in Mizoram and other northeastern states, using deceptive tactics to extract money,” an official said.
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma recently affirmed his government’s commitment to tackling cybercrime and the misuse of social media. Authorities have pledged stricter action against offenders to curb financial fraud and protect citizens.
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