Cyber fraud losses in Coimbatore crossed Rs 87 crore in 2025, despite continuous awareness campaigns by the city police and the Tamil Nadu government. The figures highlight the growing sophistication of online scams and the difficulty faced by law enforcement agencies in tracking and recovering stolen money.
According to a statement from the city police, the cybercrime wing received 9,960 complaints during the year. Of these, 7,779 cases were linked to online financial fraud. These included phishing attempts, fake links, harmful mobile applications, and social engineering scams.
The total financial loss reported stood at Rs 87.16 crore. However, police were able to recover only Rs 7.65 crore, taking the recovery rate to less than 10 per cent. During the year, 60 people were arrested in connection with cybercrime cases. Eight of them were detained under the Goondas Act.
In comparison, 50 cybercrime offenders were arrested in 2024, with nine detained under the same Act.
Police officials said fraudsters continue to misuse public trust in government systems and digital platforms. In one case, a resident received a WhatsApp message claiming to be a traffic violation notice and asking for payment of a Rs 1,000 fine.
The message contained a link that prompted the user to download an application that appeared similar to an official transport department app. Believing it to be genuine, the victim installed the file. Within minutes, Rs one lakh was withdrawn from the bank account.
“I never imagined a simple message about a traffic fine could wipe out my savings. It looked completely authentic and came with official logos,” the victim told police while filing a complaint.
A senior cybercrime officer said bank transaction records and account details play a critical role in investigations.
“Timely sharing of information by banks is vital. Any delay slows down investigations and significantly reduces the chances of freezing or recovering stolen money,” the officer said.
The official also pointed to the need for stronger Know Your Customer checks. “Many frauds are enabled by mule accounts created due to lax verification procedures. These accounts form the backbone of financial cybercrimes. Banks must tighten KYC checks while opening accounts,” the officer added.
Police advised the public to avoid downloading applications from unknown links, verify the source of official looking messages, and report suspected fraud immediately to improve recovery chances.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
