The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a specialised force of Cyber Commandos to tackle the rising menace of cybercrime in the state. The initiative, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is aimed at creating an elite cadre trained to handle cyber fraud, identity theft, financial scams, digital extortion, and organised online crime networks operating both within and outside the state.
Cybercrime cases in Uttar Pradesh have been rising steadily. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, the state recorded 10,794 cases in 2023, up from 10,117 in 2022. In Kanpur alone, losses due to cyber fraud reached Rs 45.95 crore in 2025, with more than 650 cases registered and 353 arrests. Nationally, online fraud losses have been estimated at nearly Rs 20,000 crore in 2025.
The Cyber Commandos will serve as a rapid response and intelligence unit at the state level. They will be equipped with advanced forensic tools, real-time data tracking systems, and training from premier technical institutions. The force will coordinate closely with district cyber police stations, banks, telecom providers, and national cyber agencies. Officials noted that cybercrime is increasingly affecting rural areas, with scams involving fake loan apps, phishing, investment frauds, and impersonation.
At a recent Police Manthan conference, the Chief Minister directed officials to leverage artificial intelligence and emerging technologies for proactive cybercrime prevention. The Cyber Commandos will investigate cases, track organised cyber gangs, analyse digital money trails, dismantle call-centre-based fraud networks, and assist in inter-state and international coordination. Public awareness campaigns are also planned to educate citizens on cyber hygiene and reporting mechanisms.
Yogi Adityanath cautioned citizens against scams involving so-called digital arrests, clarifying that no law allows police or government agencies to arrest anyone via video calls, WhatsApp, or social media, or to demand money online. He urged people not to share personal details or OTPs and advised victims to immediately report incidents to the national cyber helpline number 1930. The Chief Minister highlighted that cybercrime police stations now operate in all 75 districts, compared to only two before 2017, and cyber help desks are available at every police station.
