Cybercrime increased by 24 per cent in Hyderabad: CV Anand

Under the Hyderabad Police Commissionerate limits, the cybercrimes incidence has increased by 24 per cent this year. Revealing this, the City Police Commissioner, CV Anand on Wednesday was candid in remarking that cyber-security was no longer just a policing duty.

Hyderabad: The menace of cybercrime is spreading fast and dangerous. The rapid rise in cyber fraudsters ensnaring vulnerable victims with a carrot, offering easy money or huge returns on investments, or a stick, posing as enforcement personnel and threatening arrests, has set alarm bells ringing.

Under the Hyderabad Police Commissionerate limits, the cybercrimes incidence has increased by 24 per cent this year. Revealing this, the City Police Commissioner, CV Anand on Wednesday was candid in remarking that cyber-security was no longer just a policing duty.

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Speaking at the Hyderabad Annual Cybersecurity Knowledge Summit, H.A.C.K. 2.0, organised by the Hyderabad City Security Council (HCSC) here, he said, “Cyber-security is no longer just a policing duty – it is a collective responsibility.”

The summit was held to highlight urgent cybersecurity issues and underscore the role of digital citizens in creating a resilient cyber landscape. In his address, Anand added, “Our digital world demands vigilance and proactive measures from every individual, every business, and every government entity.”

Stating that cybercrimes have increased by 24 per cent, Anand, who is also the chairman of HCSC, expressed concerns over the rise in ‘digital arrest’ frauds.

The city police have returned a total of Rs 35.8 crore to the victims of cyber fraud until now this year. Recently, 28 cyber fraudsters were nabbed from Rajasthan by the city police, he said adding that the suspects were involved in about 283 cases across the country including 28 in Telangana.

In his keynote, Brijesh Singh, Additional DGP of Maharashtra, stated, “Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and so must our strategies. We need to anticipate, adapt, and act with urgency.”

Shikha Goel, DGP CID Telangana and Director of TG Cyber Security Bureau, detailed recent investigative successes and the pressing need for strengthened collaboration between citizens, industry, and law enforcement to combat escalating cyber threats.

A standout session was the fireside chat led by Bharani Kumar Aroll of HCSC and actor Adivi Sesh. During this discussion, the “I AM READY” campaign was launched, encouraging citizens to pledge their commitment to digital safety.

Over 500 representatives participated in the summit, including business leaders, educators, government representatives, law enforcement officials, and cybersecurity experts.