Goa Cyber Crime Cell Launches Massive Crackdown on Digital Fraud
The Cyber Crime Cell of Goa has achieved significant success in its ongoing battle against online fraudsters, revealing impressive numbers from their recent operations. In a comprehensive digital safety campaign, authorities have blocked 507 fraudulent websites, 151 social media accounts, and 2 malicious mobile applications that were targeting Indian citizens.
Widespread Takedown of Fraudulent Digital Platforms
Goa police have taken an aggressive stance against cybercrime infrastructure, formally requesting the takedown of 660 additional websites allegedly involved in various cyber fraud schemes. The coordinated effort with telecom service providers has also resulted in the successful blocking of 767 scam-related mobile numbers this year alone.
According to SP Cyber Crime Rahul Gupta, the takedown operation targeted a wide spectrum of digital fraud operations. "The takedown process included websites and digital platforms involved in fake parcel deliveries, investment frauds, sextortion and dating app blackmail networks, impersonation of govt authorities (like police/customs), digital arrest scams and fake hotel booking portals targeting tourists," Gupta explained.
Record-Breaking Month and Investigation Findings
The cyber crime unit recorded its most productive month in May 2025, when authorities blocked 258 fraudulent websites. This was followed by significant takedowns in January (78 websites) and June (72 websites), demonstrating the consistent efforts throughout the year.
Gupta highlighted specific modus operandi that investigators have uncovered. "Investigation showed that scammers are sending fake SMS or emails compelling people to claim failed delivery of parcels. In some cases, they ask people to click a particular link, update address, and pay a small re-delivery fee. These are fraud websites. If you enter your card details or OTP, large amounts of money can be stolen from your account," he warned.
Real Victim Stories and Prevention Measures
The police chief shared two concerning case studies that illustrate how these scams operate. In one instance, a woman received an SMS claiming her India Post parcel couldn't be delivered and was asked to pay just Rs 10 via a link. "She clicked the link and entered the OTP thinking it was a small charge—but Rs 25,782 was deducted through a credit card," Gupta revealed.
Another victim received a message pretending to be from a courier company requesting Rs 25 for redelivery. "He clicked a website link that looked real and proceeded to pay. The OTP got auto filled, and shortly after, he received an automated call from his bank confirming a transaction of Rs 85,000," Gupta stated.
Gupta emphasized that Goa police remain committed to proactively disrupting cybercrime infrastructure and ensuring digital safety for citizens, tourists, and businesses. He urged the public to report suspicious websites, phone numbers, and messages to the Chakshu portal at sancharsaathi.gov.in or cybercrime.gov.in.
For immediate assistance with financial frauds, citizens should call 1930 or file online complaints at www.cybercrime.gov.in. The police encourage everyone to remain vigilant against increasingly sophisticated online scams targeting Indian digital users.
