Cyber Fraud Complaints Cross 2,200 in Kozhikode City as Faster Police Action Encourages Victims

Cyber fraud complaints in Kozhikode city limits have crossed 2,200 in the first 10 months of 2026, averaging more than seven complaints every day. Police officials report that this steady rise in victims coming forward follows greater public awareness and the introduction of faster methods to trace fraudulent transactions and recover lost money. Police received 1,799 complaints in 2024 and 2,142 complaints in 2025. Authorities registered 128 FIRs in 2024, 60 FIRs in 2025, and 78 FIRs up to October 2026. Kozhikode City police arrested 93 persons for cyber fraud in 2024, 64 in 2025, and 42 up to October 2026.

Recovery Systems

Senior police officers credit the higher reporting rate to better public trust in grievance redressal measures and advanced cyber tracking technologies. A senior police officer with the Cyber Cell notes that mechanisms like the Money Restoration Module and the Cyber Fraud Grievance Redressal Module help coordinate directly with banks to trace suspicious money movements. When officials successfully freeze the stolen amount, they can often return the funds to the victim within three to four days. Police stations now feature dedicated help desks to assist victims directly, and officers emphasize that reporting a crime immediately greatly improves the chances of freezing funds before fraudsters withdraw them.

Common Frauds

Women make up about 70% of victims in cyber-enabled financial fraud cases in the city, frequently targeted through fake online clothing and jewellery sales, online marketing offers, and fraudulent investment schemes. Other major cybercrimes reported across the city include UPI payment fraud, OTP scams, credit and ATM card fraud, internet banking fraud, QR code scams, digital arrest schemes, online trading fraud, and fake loan applications. Investigators warn that criminals constantly invent new methods, making prompt reporting vital for tracking the money trail.

Context

Cyber fraud relies heavily on digital payment channels and quick cash-out methods, making fast coordination between law enforcement and banking networks essential for asset recovery. Police awareness campaigns aim to dismantle the hesitation victims often feel, encouraging early reporting while transaction trails remain active.