Bihar EOU blocks over 20,000 mobile numbers in cybercrime crackdown

A Digital Tsunami Hits Bihar

The digital storm landed hard in Bihar—and this time, it wasn't business as usual. The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) has deactivated over 20,000 mobile numbers, blocked more than 13,000 IMEIs, and frozen crores in bank accounts to clamp down on cybercrime. This decisive action shows Bihar is no longer a passive victim—it's fighting back with precision and purpose.

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Inside the Crackdown: The Numbers Tell a Story

From January to September 2025, Bihar logged around 74,000 online fraud complaints. The EOU responded decisively, freezing ₹75.92 crore—just over 21% of reported losses—and returning ₹5.14 crore to victims.

In October alone, 249 mobile numbers linked to online scams were deactivated. The department has also begun a rigorous investigation into "mule accounts,” which are bank accounts used to launder fraudulent money. In August, officials flagged nearly 200 such accounts and retrieved information on 138 of them through national data systems.

Furthermore, over 513 social media posts and profiles spreading misinformation or promoting scams have been removed. Every measure adds another layer of protection for Bihar's digital citizens.

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Why This Crackdown Matters

1. Rising Threats in the Digital Era

Bihar's growing internet reach has brought new challenges. While access improves lives, it also exposes users to phishing, fake investment schemes, and online job scams. Many victims come from semi-urban and rural backgrounds, where digital literacy remains low.

2. A Statewide Impact

Cybercrime isn't confined to Patna or urban centers. Small towns and villages have also faced the brunt of fraudsters targeting unsuspecting users. This crackdown sends a clear message—no corner of Bihar is off the radar.

3. Building Digital Trust

The EOU's ongoing actions reinforce public faith in the system. By tracking transactions, blocking devices, and freezing suspicious accounts, authorities are restoring confidence in online financial activity and digital safety.

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Step-by-Step: How the EOU Is Winning the Battle

• Mobile number blocking: Over 20,000 SIM cards linked to scams deactivated.

• IMEI lockdown: More than 13,000 mobile devices rendered unusable.

• Mule account investigation: Hundreds of suspicious bank accounts flagged and data retrieved.

• Fund recovery: ₹75.92 crore frozen, ₹5.14 crore already returned to victims.

• Social media monitoring: Over 500 misleading profiles and posts removed.

Each of these steps pushes Bihar closer to a secure and accountable digital space.

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What It Means for Citizens

Every digital user in Bihar plays a role in this transformation. Awareness and caution are now vital weapons. Avoid sharing OTPs, clicking unknown links, or trusting random investment calls. If a message or transaction feels suspicious, report it immediately.

This campaign proves something powerful—when technology is misused, Bihar will act. With the EOU leading from the front, the message is unmistakable: cybercriminals can no longer hide behind screens.

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