1.2M SIM cards deactivated, 1.33M mule accounts frozen: MHA dismantles scam networks, recovers ₹5,489 Cr

Hyderabad: In a massive crackdown, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recovered Rs 5,489 crore from online fraudsters.

Scam networks dismantled

As part of the crackdown, officials said that over 1.2 million SIM cards and mobile handsets linked to cybercriminals were deactivated.

Authorities also froze 1.33 million mule accounts, bank accounts commonly misused to route illicit money. Proactive monitoring further prevented fraudulent transactions worth Rs 4,631 crore, stopping funds from reaching criminals.

Minister seeks faster refunds for victims

Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, while reviewing the performance of the Cyber and Information Security (CIS) division at North Block, Delhi, stressed the need to simplify refund processes.

He directed officials to create mechanisms ensuring that victims of cyber fraud get their money back quickly and without procedural delays.

I4C: The nerve centre of cyber policing

Officials highlighted the crucial role of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which acts as the central hub for coordination between the Centre and states. Through I4C, law enforcement agencies across India are now able to share intelligence, track suspects, and act in real time against cybercriminals.

Tech-enabled anti-fraud measures

The MHA also showcased multiple I4C-driven initiatives, including:

National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal for citizens to file complaints.

1930 Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Helpline for immediate reporting of scams.

Cyber Multi-Agency Centre for inter-agency coordination.

Suspect Registry & “Report and Check” facility for identifying repeat offenders.

Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre, enabling real-time fraud interception.

Officials noted that these integrated platforms have been instrumental in disrupting fraud networks and protecting citizens’ money.

Strengthening legal and policing capacity

To further reinforce cybercrime response, the ministry is investing in specialised training for police officers, lawyers, and judges across the country. This initiative aims to equip the law and order machinery with the expertise required to handle complex cybercrime cases and ensure swift justice.

A Nationwide drive against cyber threats

Officials described the crackdown as a milestone in India’s fight against online fraud, underlining the Centre’s commitment to building a safer digital ecosystem for citizens.