Major cybercrimes in Telangana districts include fake transactions and employment offers

Cybercrime is a complex network that preys on gullible people not just within cities but also outside of them. Beyond the city boundaries, the tactic takes on a different flavor, with offenders seducing under the guise of little jobs and plausible ones like reward points on credit and debit cards, making their victims seem irresistible.

 

Depending on the method of operation and the cybercrime offenses that have been occurring in the districts and villages, the loss amount may vary at times. A police officer described the various strategies used by the con artists, saying, “Mobile phone deals on platforms like OLX sometimes are a good grab.” These programs combine with the false promises of government programs like the Pradhana Mantri Janata Yojana to trick unsuspecting individuals into falling for a web of lies.

“Cyber criminals also use tactics like setting up fake mobile or cell phone towers and taking advantage of the housing market by deceiving property owners with false rental agreements,” the officer said.

The present scenario, where graduates from BTech institutions in locations like Suryapet and Nalgonda are experiencing losses, is further complicated by unemployment. Numerous recent grads often become victims of phony employment offers. A BTech student was caught after he committed a crime in a recent Khammam case.

Parepally Sai Krishna, the accused, was living off of a part-time business after completing his BTech. Rather of taking advantage of the free money, he would write mails to Heads of Departments at several universities posing as a student and pressuring them to give the students employment. Three students contacted him, offering them employment in exchange for payments of Rs 35,000 to secure a spot and a further Rs 35,000 once they received their first paycheck. However, when three students paid him, he made off with the money.

Authorities have responded by taking aggressive steps to directly tackle cybercrime.

“The establishment of six specialized Cyber Security Police Stations across the state, equipped with a dedicated team of law enforcement personnel, marks a significant step in the fight against digital threats,” Telangana State Cyber Security Bureau (TSCSB) spokesperson SP Deendra Singh said. These stations, which are headed by Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and assisted by an Inspector, two Sub-Inspectors, and twenty Constables, are committed to effectively combating cybercrime.

In addition, the establishment of District Cybercrime Coordinator Centers (D4Cs) in every district of the state is evidence of the concerted endeavor to counter cyberthreats at the local level.

“These specialized Cyber Security police stations are taking up cases where victims suffer a loss of Rs 1 lakh or more,” the official said, “and handing the case over to respective police stations.” In the meanwhile, every Wednesday, the CCPS and D4Cs conduct awareness campaigns in villages, universities, and schools to raise awareness of current issues with cybercrime and provide advice on how to be safe.