Hyderabad seniors lose ₹102 crore to cyber fraud in 19 months

Hyderabad police have revealed that senior citizens in the city lost a staggering ₹102 crore to cyber fraud over the past 19 months. The figures, disclosed in a recent report, underscore a growing vulnerability among the elderly to digital scams.

Officials attribute the spike to increased internet and smartphone usage among senior citizens, especially after the pandemic. Many are targeted through phishing calls, fake investment schemes, and impersonation of bank officials.

Modus operandi of fraudsters

Fraudsters often pose as representatives from telecom regulators, banks, or even law enforcement. They create urgency, claiming the victim's account is linked to illegal activity or their SIM card will be blocked.

In several cases, victims are persuaded to install remote-access apps, giving scammers direct control over their devices. Others are lured into transferring money to 'safe accounts' that turn out to be fraudulent.

Police say the elderly are especially susceptible because they are less familiar with digital banking safeguards and often hesitate to verify suspicious requests.

Police response and helplines

The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Wing has urged citizens to report any suspicious activity immediately to the national helpline 1930. Quick reporting can help freeze fraudulent transactions before funds are moved.

Officials are also conducting awareness sessions in residential colonies and housing societies, focusing on common scams and precautionary measures. Banks have been advised to flag unusual transactions involving senior citizens.

Despite these efforts, the sheer scale of losses points to a wider problem. Many victims, fearing social embarrassment, do not report crimes promptly, allowing cybercriminals to operate with impunity.

What seniors should remember

• Never share OTPs, PINs, or passwords over the phone.
• Verify any caller claiming to be from a bank or government agency.
• Do not install apps or grant screen-sharing access to unknown persons.
• Always check account statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.

Police have also cautioned against clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages, which often lead to phishing websites that mimic legitimate portals.

The Hyderabad commissionerate is now planning to expand its cyber awareness drives to more neighborhoods, with a focus on reaching those who are less active online. They are also collaborating with resident welfare associations to set up quick-response channels for suspected frauds.

As digital payments become more pervasive, experts suggest that proactive education and robust reporting mechanisms are key to reversing this trend. The next few months will be critical as authorities attempt to close the gap between the speed of scams and the readiness of potential victims.