Bhubaneswar: In a decisive move to strengthen cybersecurity and crack down on rising cybercrimes, the Odisha Police has initiated a comprehensive statewide special campaign named “Operation Cyber Kavach”.
It targets key enablers of cyber fraud, including anonymous or mule bank accounts, fake SIM cards, and organised cybercrime syndicates.
While announcing the launch of the operation earlier this week, DGP Y B Khurania issued strict directives to dismantle these elements through coordinated enforcement. Special task forces have been formed in each district under SPs, and in the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate under DCPs for “Operation Cyber Kavach”, which will run till February 27.
Early successes under the operation include a major breakthrough by Balangir police, who uncovered a large-scale cyber fraud scheme. Fraudsters had opened bank accounts in various individuals’ names and siphoned off more than Rs 5 crore. Two cybercriminals were arrested in connection with the case, and police seized 29 passbooks from different banks, 15 cheque books, swipe machines, mobile phones, and other incriminating items.
In a related development in Mayurbhanj district, police registered a case involving the use of mule bank accounts for cyber fraud. Four accused have so far been identified, and notices have been issued against them. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the roles of other persons linked to the incident.
Since cybercrimes have evolved into interstate and international networks, Odisha Police has devised a targeted strategy, which includes identifying those who sell bulk SIM cards using fake identity documents,
ATM/check withdrawal hotspots used by fraudsters for cashing out money and coordinating with various banking institutions to investigate suspicious accounts.
The DGP has urged people not to fall for any inducements and to never share sensitive information such as bank account details, ATM cards, OTPs, or other confidential data.
