Cybercrime in Gujarat has reached alarming levels, with statistics revealing a 30% surge in incidents over the past five years. Despite the vigilant efforts of the CID (Crime) and Gujarat Police, along with government-led awareness campaigns, digital fraud continues to outpace preventive measures. In the first nine months of 2025 alone (up to September), cybercriminals have swindled citizens out of a staggering ₹1,011 crore.
According to available data, investment fraud remains the most lucrative avenue for scammers. Lured by promises of high returns, 9,240 individuals were defrauded of ₹397 crore in investment-related schemes. Additionally, cases involving fake identities, OTP scams, and credit card fraud have seen a significant uptick, with fraudsters using impersonation tactics to loot ₹137 crore from 27,816 victims.
The frequency of these crimes has escalated dramatically. In 2020, the state recorded an average of 155 online fraud complaints daily (approx. 6 per hour). By 2025, this figure has skyrocketed to an average of 521 daily complaints (approx. 21 per hour). Over the last five years, a total of 4.81 lakh complaints have been registered, with cumulative losses touching ₹3,387 crore. However, the average loss per complaint has remained relatively stable, rising marginally from ₹70,313 in 2020 to ₹71,204 in 2025.
Cyber experts highlight a shifting modus operandi, noting that criminals are increasingly targeting vulnerable groups such as pensioners and senior citizens living alone. Using fear tactics—such as impersonating police or CBI officials to threaten “digital house arrest”—or coercing victims into downloading malicious apps, scammers are wiping out life savings. While authorities continue to crack down on these networks, officials emphasize that citizen awareness remains the most effective defense against such crimes.
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