Multi-pronged strategy to curb cybercrime in State, says Home Minister Anitha

A total of 25,338 suspect mobile numbers linked to the ‘Digital Arrest’ and other cyber financial frauds have been blocked in Andhra Pradesh, according to Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha.

Responding to queries raised by MLCs Kavali Greeshma Prasad, B. Tirumala Naidu and Bhumireddy Ramagopal Reddy in the Legislative Council on Friday, Ms. Anitha said the government formulated a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy to curb the rising incidences of cybercrime in the State.

She said the measures included awareness campaigns on emerging trends and reporting mechanisms, prompt action through the cyber helpline, ‘1930’, and portal (cybercrime.gov.in), and mandatory FIR registration in cases involving losses above ₹10 lakh. The helpline had also been strengthened with AI-based ICCMS technology, she said.

Ms. Anitha added that capacity building of police personnel in cyber investigation, digital evidence handling, forensic tools and money trail analysis was underway, alongside the establishment of dedicated Cyber Crime Wings and police stations in all districts.

Highlighting awareness efforts, she said 1,596 programmes were conducted across 26 districts during 2024-25, including 525 events in October 2025, observed as ‘Cyber Security & Awareness Month’. Special drives targeted senior citizens, women and retired employees to prevent ‘Digital Arrest’ frauds.