Cyber Fraud Complaints Continue To Rise; Maharashtra Records Highest Losses

Complaints of cyber fraud cases leading to financial losses have continued to rise across India, highlighting the growing challenges around online scams and digital transactions. Recent data from the government shows the scale of financial cybercrime and the challenges involved in addressing such cases.

According to data discussed at a recent meeting of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, India recorded more than 1.27 million financial cyber fraud complaints between January 1 and June 30, 2026. The complaints included fraudulent transactions worth over Rs 10,178 crore, according to a report in The Indian Express.

The report said Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of financial cyber fraud complaints at 185,000, followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka with 158,000 and 121,000 complaints, respectively. Gujarat and Bihar recorded 97,937 and 93,137 complaints, respectively.

Also, apart from the number of complaints, the data indicated the financial losses reported across states. Maharashtra recorded the highest losses with victims reporting fraud worth Rs 1,637.66 crore. Karnataka followed with losses of Rs 1,097.37 crore, while Tamil Nadu reported losses of Rs 897.79 crore. Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat reported losses of Rs 734.19 crore and Rs 643.82 crore, respectively.

The data also provided insights into the action taken after the complaints were reported.

According to the figures, 286,000 complaints were forwarded for banking action, while banks took up 270,000 cases under the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System. They were able to place liens or holds on Rs 2,968.85 crore, accounting for 29.17 per cent of the total reported fraud amount.

Cybercriminals continue to target individuals through a variety of methods, including investment scams, digital arrest fraud, loan app fraud, phishing, impersonation and fraudulent links circulated through messaging and social media platforms.

The report also showed a broader trend seen over the past few years. Reported cybercrime losses across India reached Rs 64,447 crore during the period from 2021 to May 2026. Authorities were able to freeze Rs 10,718 crore, whereas victims received refunds worth only Rs 323 crore.

As cyber fraud cases are on the rise, consumers should stay alert while making online transactions. By taking some steps, such as checking links, not responding to unsolicited investment offers, protecting personal information, and reporting suspicious activity early on, people can reduce the risk of financial fraud.