Delays in reporting and registering cybercrime complaints have raised concerns over the loss of the crucial “golden hour” for preventing financial losses. In response, Karnataka Police has directed that cybercrime cases registered at local police stations be transferred to specialised cybercrime police stations immediately after FIR registration.
In a circular dated September 11, Director General and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem instructed all unit officers to follow the new process. Complaints related to cybercrime and the IT Act, 2000, can continue to be received and registered at jurisdictional or local police stations.
However, once an FIR is registered, the case must be “immediately transferred” to the concerned district or city cybercrime police station. The specialised unit must then “immediately take up the case for investigation.”
The directive aims to reduce delays that can affect the preservation of digital evidence. In financial fraud cases, quick action can also help authorities freeze or hold suspected fraudulent transactions before the money is moved through multiple accounts.
Cybercrime police stations will be responsible for the timely preservation and analysis of digital evidence. Their duties will also include technical examination of electronic devices and records and coordination with banks, payment intermediaries, telecom service providers, social media platforms and other agencies.
The circular further directs District Superintendents of Police and City Commissioners of Police to closely monitor the transfer and investigation of cybercrime cases.
District and city cybercrime police stations have also been asked to maintain records of cases transferred from local police stations and ensure proper investigation.
The move is aimed at bringing specialised investigators into cybercrime cases at the earliest possible stage. This is particularly important in online financial fraud cases, where prompt intervention can help authorities trace and freeze defrauded money.
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