Bengaluru: Contrary to the belief that cybercrime is mostly an urban issue, recent data reveals a troubling surge in such cases across rural Karnataka. The number of reported cybercrimes in rural areas jumped from 880 in 2022 to 1,600 by 2024. Tribal regions, once considered largely untouched by digital fraud, saw 12 cases in 2024—up from just one in 2023 and none the year before.
Experts point to growing internet access and widespread use of smartphones and digital platforms as the main drivers. “Wherever the internet reaches, cybercrime follows,” said M.A. Saleem, DGP, Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Digital Society Foundation founder N.A. Vijay Shankar explained that cybercriminals often act indiscriminately, targeting victims at random through unsolicited calls and messages. “People fall into traps because of rising digital exposure,” he said. He added that improved awareness and simpler complaint mechanisms—such as dialing 1930 or using online portals—may also be increasing case reporting.
Officials have observed rural cases involving scams similar to those in cities: job frauds, fake investment opportunities, and digital blackmail using doctored images. Belagavi SP Dr. Bheemashankar Guled noted that rural complaints now closely mirror those from urban areas.
In one tragic incident, an elderly couple in Khanapur died by suicide after receiving a fraudulent threat of digital arrest.
The Home Department reported these findings in the March session of the Legislative Council, emphasizing various awareness initiatives—including school workshops and informational pamphlets—rolled out across villages.
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