Shimla, June 23,
Amid a surge in cyber frauds linked to cryptocurrency, the Himachal Pradesh Cyber Crime Branch has issued a strong public advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant while dealing in digital assets. The advisory follows a worrying spike in complaints related to illegal crypto transactions, dubious trading platforms, and the increasing misuse of cryptocurrencies on the dark web.
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According to officials, the state’s cyber helpline number 1930 received 135 complaints related to cryptocurrency fraud in 2024 alone. Alarmingly, an additional 24 cases have already surfaced in 2025, originating from various parts of the state. The trend has raised serious concerns about public awareness and the persistent exploitation of digital financial tools by cybercriminals.
Despite repeated awareness campaigns, the authorities say many individuals continue to fall victim to scams by investing in unverified cryptocurrencies or engaging with platforms that are neither licensed nor regulated. A statement from the office of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, State CID (Cyber Crime), Shimla, warned that “cryptocurrency, due to its anonymity and complex tracing mechanisms, has become a tool for cyber criminals.”
In light of the growing threat, the Cyber Branch has shared precautionary measures for safe investment practices. These include using only licensed exchanges that adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, steering clear of platforms that promise unrealistic returns, and avoiding unknown links or applications often sent via unsolicited messages or social media. The public is also cautioned against viral schemes claiming to double crypto investments or offer exaggerated rewards, which are often fronts for sophisticated frauds.
The advisory calls on citizens to report any suspicious crypto-related activity—be it fraud, blackmail, or illegal transactions—immediately at the nearest cyber crime police station or by dialing the 1930 helpline. Law enforcement officials have also revealed that special task forces are now monitoring dark web activity using AI-driven blockchain analysis tools, and efforts are underway to coordinate with both national and international agencies to dismantle cyber fraud networks.
The police emphasize that digital currency users must prioritize safety and legality in all transactions. “Security and legality should be the top priorities for every crypto user,” the advisory concludes, marking a renewed push to protect citizens from falling prey to the growing menace of crypto-linked cyber crime.
