Online scam targets Kerala professionals: 55 doctors, 93 techies fell victims in last 5 months

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala police have revealed that a majority of cyber scam victims in the State are skilled professionals, such as doctors and IT experts. According to official statistics, over 1,000 people have been scammed in the last five months alone, with 55 doctors and 93 IT professionals among the victims.

The cyber division of the police have been taking proactive measures to raise awareness about online fraud both through social media platforms and in-person sessions. Association of doctors have launched their own awareness campaigns against online scams. Efforts are being made to contact the Reserve Bank as there is not much participation as expected in the awareness campaign conducted by the police along with the banks.

Approximately Rs 15 cr scammed a month

Estimates suggest that the State loses a minimum of Rs 15 crore each month to online fraud. Last year alone, losses amounted to Rs 201 crore. Cyber Division officials noted that early intervention could lead to the recovery of at least some of the lost funds. However, less than 40 percent of those who fall victim to fraud come forward with complaints in the first few hours.

People scammed until now in 2024 - 1103

Private employees	327
Traders	123
IT professionals	93
Home makers	93
Retirees	83
NRIs	80
Government employees	60
Doctors	55
Students	53
Teachers	39
Bank officials	31
Défense personnels	27
The unemployed	11
Nurses	10
Lawyers	07
Farmers	05
Chartered Accountants	02
Pharmacists	02
Senior citizen	02