India Police Intensify Probe into Cyber Extortion by Loan Apps
The Kozhikode police have received fresh evidence pointing to organised cyber extortion networks operating behind alleged loan apps, prompting an intensification of their investigation into illegal digital lending platforms. One of the latest complaints, filed by a resident of Moozhikkal, highlights the prolonged harassment faced by victims who fall prey to quick-money offers from such digital traps.
The police said that the information shared by the complainant was being analysed by the cybercrime investigation team to identify those behind these anonymous online operations. Special squads in Kozhikode city and rural jurisdictions added that multiple complaints were being handled with strict confidentiality so as not to alert the accused or compromise the inquiry.
According to officials with the cyber cell, there has been an increase in the number of people using the cybercrime helpline to quickly report their grievances, which will help the police gather concrete evidence and identify those behind the cyber extortion networks.
The police will continue to analyse the complaints and gather evidence, with assistance from specialised agencies at the State and national levels, to widen the probe and bring those responsible to justice. The court will likely hear the case in the coming days, with the police expected to submit their findings and recommendations for further action.