Mangaluru: In the coastal region over the last four years, a staggering Rs 169.82 crore has ended up in the pockets of cybercriminals across various fraud cases, while a mere Rs 10.60 crore has been recovered. Ironically, it has been revealed that while fraudsters are ahead in utilizing technology, the police have fallen behind in its adoption, which is a primary reason for the surge in such scams. After Bengaluru, the highest number of cyber fraud cases are being reported in Mangaluru and the coastal belt.

192 individuals arrested

In 2023, 467 cyber fraud cases were registered, and 83 people were arrested. In 2024, 486 cases were registered, and 67 people were arrested. In 2025, 485 cases were registered, and 42 people were arrested. Until February 2026, 60 cases have been registered, with no arrests made so far. To date, those caught are merely agents working for commissions; the main kingpins behind these operations have not been traced.

Fraudsters lead in technology use

Currently, cyber fraudsters are far ahead of the police in terms of technological proficiency. Scammers are using evolving methods and tools, including AI tools and fake apps, to carry out frauds in an instant. There is a growing consensus that the police department is lagging in technical implementation.

Recovery Statistics