As cyber-enabled financial fraud continues to rise, the Kerala government has stepped up its enforcement efforts by blocking thousands of illegal digital platforms. The state says the latest measures are part of a broader strategy to strengthen cybersecurity, protect citizens from online scams and prevent financial fraud.
Speaking in the Assembly, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the police have blocked internet access to 1,836 illegal loan apps operating without approval from the Reserve Bank of India. Authorities have also removed more than 5,000 fake websites that were allegedly being used for financial fraud.
The minister said the government is treating cybercrime as a serious issue and is preparing a comprehensive project focused on preventing and tackling online offences.
The discussion followed concerns raised over the growing number of cybercrime cases in Kerala. It was highlighted that more than 42,000 people became victims of cybercrime last year, with financial losses exceeding ₹814 crore. Nearly half of these losses were reportedly linked to fraudulent online trading apps.
The government also noted that cybercriminals are using fake payment requests for traffic challans and utility bills to deceive people. Police are registering cases under Section 66D of the Information Technology Act and Section 318 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita based on complaints received from victims.
Along with blocking illegal platforms, Kerala Police has intensified cyber patrolling to detect and prevent online fraud. The government also expressed concern over the misuse of online gaming platforms for financial scams, particularly targeting children.
To address this, awareness programmes are being conducted in schools and educational institutions to educate students about the risks associated with online gaming and cyber fraud.
The state government said it will continue strengthening enforcement, expanding public awareness campaigns and improving cybersecurity measures as online financial fraud continues to evolve.
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