Cyber Scams Drain ₹508 Cr in AP
Andhra Pradesh is facing a growing threat from cybercrime, with residents losing over ₹508 crore to digital scams in just eight months. From January to August 2025, the state witnessed a surge in online frauds, affecting people across age groups and professions.
Every month, victims in cities like Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Kurnool report losses ranging from ₹50 to ₹60 crore. The scams are sophisticated, often originating from Southeast Asia, especially Cambodia, and are tailored to exploit specific age groups.
Working professionals aged 30 to 45 are frequently targeted with fake investment schemes, including fraudulent stock tips and cryptocurrency offers. Senior citizens face threats from “digital arrest” scams, where fraudsters impersonate officials and demand payments under pressure.
The Andhra Pradesh police have registered over 2,000 cybercrime complaints this year. Despite efforts, recovery rates remain low due to the complexity of tracing funds and the anonymity provided by digital platforms. In 2024 alone, the state lost ₹974 crore to cyber frauds, marking a 2,760% increase compared to 2021.
Cybercriminals operate from high-security hubs, often controlled by foreign networks. Shockingly, some victims from Andhra Pradesh have been trafficked and forced to work in these scam centers. The fraudsters, though not highly educated, are skilled in storytelling and manipulation.
Authorities warn that greed and urgency are key tools used by scammers. Victims are often rushed into decisions without time to verify. The scams include:
- Investment frauds promising high returns
- Loan app scams with hidden charges
- Job frauds targeting unemployed youth
- UPI frauds exploiting digital payment platforms
- Digital arrest scams pressuring senior citizens
The police are urging citizens to stay alert and report suspicious activity immediately. They recommend using the cybercrime helpline 1930 and the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal for quick action.
Cyber awareness campaigns are being launched across schools, colleges, and workplaces. Officials stress the importance of digital literacy and caution while sharing personal information online.
The state government is also working on strengthening cybercrime units and improving coordination between departments. Training programs for law enforcement are being expanded to handle complex digital investigations.
As online transactions become part of daily life, the need for vigilance grows. Andhra Pradesh’s experience is a wake-up call for the entire country to prioritize cybersecurity and protect citizens from digital threats.
