VISAKHAPATNAM: In tune with its dubious distinction, Visakhapatnam Cyber Investigation Cell saw steep increase in cyber cases. Around 255 cases were registered this year till date as against 197 cases in 2014 and 148 in 2013. Almost 65 per cent cases, since the opening of the Cyber Investigation cell, are pending disposal.
Out of the 255 cases, 120 are of the phishing and vishing frauds which top the list, next are online scams like job, insurance and loan frauds numbering 50 this year. The rest includes 25 Facebook cases, 10 Nigerian lottery frauds, a few matrimonial, skimming and cloning cases, indecent video cases and hacking. As per the records of Cyber Crime Investigation Cell, after its establishment in 2010, around 840 cases have been registered till date and of which 570 are in various stages of investigation. Out of the 255 cases this year, only 20 per cent of them have been disposed of.
No Full-fledged Cyber Cell
Though the State government promulgated a GO making Cyber Crime Investigation Cell into full-fledged PS some months ago, the city cell has received neither funds nor manpower till date. This is the main reason for non-completion of investigation in many cases. The Cyber crime police have to take the help of police from other stations for investigation in other states. Besides, local hurdles make the job tough.
“There are a lot of obstacles like language and topography. There isn’t enough support from the local police and almost nil backing from the locals, who may even resort to violence. Sometimes, even the bank authorities do not cooperate. In almost all the cases, the proofs left by the accused like contact number, mail ID and bank account are fake,” said K Satyanarayana Rao, inspector of the Cyber Crime Investigation Cell, explaining the difficulties.
Currently, the Cyber Crime Cell of the city has an inspector, two sub-inspectors, one head constable, five constables and during inter-state operations, the cell takes the help of constables from other police stations. If the GO is implemented, two more SIs, three ASIs, and 40-member staff would be granted. Besides, almost all the technical equipment including mobile trackers, international protocol trackers, and others worth `1 crore will aid the team.
“The Government has identified the land for the cyber crime station in the city and we have already sent a proposal for equipment. We hope to have the full-fledged station in early 2016,” added the Inspector.
