Hyderabad: In a major offensive against cybercrime, the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police intensified their enforcement operations during May 2026, leading to the arrest of 74 individuals involved in various online fraud activities. Authorities also succeeded in removing 251 social media profiles that were allegedly promoting illegal betting platforms, online gaming applications, and fraudulent investment schemes.
The action was part of a broader strategy aimed at curbing the growing threat of cyber fraud, which has been affecting citizens across the country through sophisticated online scams and digital deception techniques.
Major Action Against Cyber Fraud Networks
According to the monthly review released by the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Wing, a total of 54 First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered during May. Investigations carried out by cybercrime officials resulted in arrests connected to several categories of online fraud, including investment scams, matrimonial fraud, trading fraud, OTP-based fraud, job-related scams, social media fraud, and so-called “digital arrest” cases.
Officials stated that cybercriminals continue to exploit technology and social media platforms to target unsuspecting victims through fake promises of high returns, employment opportunities, and other deceptive tactics.
Operation Octopus 3.0 Targets Ghost SIM Ecosystem
One of the most significant achievements during the month was the successful execution of Operation Octopus 3.0, a nationwide operation targeting the illegal ghost SIM card network allegedly used by cybercriminals to conceal their identities.
During the operation, Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police uncovered an extensive ecosystem that supplied anonymous communication channels to fraudsters operating across India. The investigation led to the arrest of 66 individuals, including ghost SIM card holders, point-of-sale agents, distributors, and suppliers.
The crackdown was carried out across 13 states, highlighting the national scale of the network and its role in facilitating cyber fraud operations.
Investigators believe that ghost SIM cards have become a preferred tool for cybercriminals because they allow fraudsters to communicate with victims while masking their true identities and locations. By dismantling this network, authorities expect to significantly disrupt several ongoing cybercrime operations.
Illegal Betting and Fake Investment Advertisements Removed
Alongside criminal investigations, specialized cyber patrol teams conducted extensive monitoring of social media platforms. During the review period, authorities identified 251 social media accounts responsible for running 304 paid advertisements promoting illegal betting applications, online gaming platforms, and fake investment opportunities.
Police officials revealed that many of these advertisements used misleading claims such as guaranteed profits, quick returns on investment, referral-based commissions, and other attractive financial incentives designed to lure users.
In some cases, fraudsters reportedly used deepfake videos featuring well-known public personalities to falsely endorse investment schemes and betting platforms. These manipulated videos were intended to increase credibility and encourage users to invest money or download unauthorized applications.
After verification, all identified accounts and advertisements were reported to the respective social media platforms and subsequently removed.
Large-Scale Cyber Patrol Success
Officials highlighted that cyber patrol initiatives have been yielding significant results over the past several months. So far, Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have facilitated the removal of 678 social media profiles and 2,207 paid advertisements linked to illegal betting activities and fraudulent investment schemes.
The Cyber Crime Wing emphasized that continuous monitoring of digital platforms remains essential to prevent fraudsters from reaching potential victims and spreading misleading content online.
Authorities noted that cybercriminals increasingly rely on social media advertising tools to target users based on their interests and demographics, making proactive surveillance an important component of modern law enforcement efforts.
Victims Receive Financial Relief
The monthly review also highlighted progress in assisting victims of cyber fraud.
During May, victims received refunds totaling ₹68.27 lakh across 25 cyber fraud cases where overall reported losses exceeded ₹10 crore.
According to officials, investment fraud and trading-related scams accounted for the largest share of financial losses. These schemes often involve fraudsters convincing victims to invest in fake trading platforms, cryptocurrency ventures, or fabricated stock market opportunities promising exceptionally high returns.
Cyber Crime officials reiterated the importance of reporting incidents promptly, as early intervention significantly improves the chances of freezing fraudulent transactions and recovering stolen funds.
Surge in Cyber Crime Complaints
Data from the review revealed that Hyderabad’s Zonal Cyber Cells received 2,531 complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal during May 2026.
Following verification and investigation, authorities registered 349 FIRs and arrested 23 accused persons in 18 different cases.
In addition, victims received refunds amounting to ₹25.32 lakh, demonstrating ongoing efforts to provide financial relief and legal support to those affected by cybercrime.
Officials noted that the increasing number of complaints reflects both the growing prevalence of cyber fraud and greater public awareness about reporting online crimes through official channels.
C-Mitra Initiative Strengthens Victim Support
The Cyber Crime Wing’s victim assistance initiative, known as C-Mitra, continued to play an important role in supporting affected individuals.
During May, the initiative made approximately 1,100 calls to cybercrime victims, providing guidance, counseling, and assistance regarding legal procedures.
The program also facilitated the registration of 252 Zero FIRs, enabling victims to initiate legal action quickly regardless of the jurisdiction in which the cybercrime occurred.
Officials stated that timely reporting remains one of the most effective tools in combating cybercrime, as it allows authorities to trace transactions, identify suspects, and prevent further financial losses.
Authorities Urge Public Vigilance
Cyber Crime Police have advised citizens to remain cautious while engaging with online investment opportunities, betting applications, unsolicited job offers, and social media advertisements promising unrealistic returns.
Authorities urged users not to share OTPs, banking credentials, passwords, or personal information with unknown individuals. Citizens are also encouraged to verify the authenticity of websites, applications, and investment platforms before making any financial transactions.
With cybercriminals increasingly adopting advanced technologies such as deepfake videos and fake digital identities, law enforcement agencies emphasize that public awareness remains a critical defense against online fraud.
The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cyber security, dismantling criminal networks, and ensuring that perpetrators of online fraud are brought to justice through coordinated and technology-driven investigations.
