Karnataka Citizens Lose ₹5,474 Crore to Cyber Scams in Just 3 Years
Karnataka lost ₹5,474 crore to cyber fraud in 3 years; cases rising, detection falling.
Karnataka has witnessed an alarming surge in cyber fraud over the past three years, resulting in a staggering financial loss of Rs 5,474 crore, Home Minister G Parameshwara told the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday. The data, shared during a session addressing the rising menace of digital fraud, highlights the growing vulnerability of citizens in the digital age.
Official statistics show that the state registered 22,255 cybercrime cases in 2023, 22,478 cases in 2024, and 13,000 cases so far in 2025. Despite the high incidence, the detection and resolution rate has sharply declined, with only 6,159 cases solved in 2023, 3,549 in 2024, and just 1,009 resolved so far in 2025, indicating a widening gap between crimes committed and convictions achieved.
Financial losses have escalated year on year. Cybercriminals siphoned off Rs 873.29 crore in 2023, a staggering Rs 2,562.63 crore in 2024, and Rs 2,038.84 crore in 2025, totaling Rs 5,474.76 crore over three years. Experts point to sophisticated tactics by fraudsters, who exploit digital payment systems, VPNs, encrypted messaging, and dark-web platforms to avoid detection.
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The Home Minister attributed the rise in cyber fraud to the rapid increase in internet users across the state and a lack of digital literacy. Many citizens remain unaware of online threats, making them easy targets for scammers. Socio-economic factors, including unemployment, urban stress, poverty, excessive social media exposure, and declining moral standards, were also cited as contributing factors.
Structural challenges have compounded the problem. Law enforcement agencies often lack adequate capacity and technical expertise to tackle complex cybercrimes, while prolonged judicial delays hamper effective deterrence. The report underscores the urgent need for strengthened cybercrime units and faster legal processes to protect citizens.
The government has called for enhanced awareness programs and stricter monitoring of digital transactions, along with greater collaboration with financial institutions and technology providers. Experts emphasize that public education on cybersecurity, combined with improved law enforcement, is crucial to reducing the growing threat of online fraud in Karnataka.
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