Table of Contents
Introduction – Rise of Online Scams in Bihar (2025)
With Bihar’s rapid digital transformation, cybercriminals have found new ways to exploit unsuspecting citizens. In 2025, online scams affecting Bihar users have increased by nearly 40%, as reported by cybercrime.gov.in.
From UPI frauds to fake job portals, every digital user — whether an advocate, CA, or small business owner — is a potential target. The Cyber Crime Police Station, Patna, has recorded numerous cases under Sections 66C and 66D of the IT Act, 2000, and Sections 419–420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
This blog by Advocate Tabish Ahmad explains the top 10 online scams in Bihar, their legal implications, and how to protect yourself in the digital era.
1. UPI and Digital Payment Fraud
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has made digital transactions seamless, but it’s also become a hotbed for phishing and payment link scams.
Fraudsters often send fake links via SMS or WhatsApp, tricking users into entering their PIN or OTP.
Case Study:
A Patna-based small business owner lost ₹1.2 lakh in a fake payment link scam. The complaint was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station, Patna, and the accused was tracked through the IP address under Section 66D (Cheating by Personation using Computer Resource).
Legal Reference:
- Section 66C IT Act – Identity theft
- Section 66D IT Act – Impersonation using computer resources
- RBI Guidelines – Immediate fraud reporting to the bank within 24 hours
Read next: Step-by-Step Guide to Report UPI Fraud to Your Bank
2. Fake Loan App Scams
Unverified “instant loan” apps promise easy credit but steal personal data and demand extortionate repayments. Many users in Bihar’s rural districts fell prey in 2025.
How It Works:
- Users install fake apps from unofficial sources.
- Permissions allow access to contacts and photos.
- Threat calls and data leaks follow.
Legal Provision:
- Section 67 IT Act – Publishing obscene material (for blackmail-based loan app scams).
- IPC 384 – Extortion.
- CERT-In Advisory 2024-07 warns against sideloading unknown apps.
3. Social Media Impersonation and Hacking
Cybercriminals clone Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp profiles to solicit money or sensitive data.
Victims often find their identities misused for fraudulent fundraising or romance scams.
Example:
A fake Instagram account impersonated a Patna advocate, demanding “donations” via UPI.
Applicable Laws:
- Section 66C IT Act – Misuse of digital identity.
- IPC 419 – Cheating by personation.
4. E-Commerce and OLX Scam Trends
Fraudsters on OLX and Quikr list fake items and use QR code payment traps.
Victims scanning these codes unknowingly authorize debits instead of credits.
RBI Cyber Safety Tip:
Never scan QR codes to receive money — only use them to pay after verification.
5. Phishing and OTP-Based Fraud
Phishing emails mimic banks or government sites, urging users to verify KYC or PAN details.
Bihar users have reported OTP-based thefts linked to fake KYC links.
Legal Sections:
- IT Act, Section 43 – Unauthorized access.
- IT Act, Section 66D – Fraud via electronic means.
6. Cryptocurrency and Investment Scams
Crypto frauds surged after social media ads promised “double returns.” Many Bihari investors were duped through Telegram groups or offshore wallets.
Relevant Legal Insight:
- Though cryptocurrency isn’t banned, misleading investment promotions fall under IPC 420 (Cheating).
- RBI and CERT-In have warned investors to verify SEBI registration of any digital investment platform.
7. Cyber Extortion and Sextortion Cases
Hackers steal private data or intimate images and demand money. Victims are often young professionals and students from Patna and Gaya.
Applicable Laws:
- Section 67 IT Act – Publishing or transmitting obscene material.
- IPC 503 – Criminal intimidation.
Victims should immediately file complaints on cybercrime.gov.in and avoid paying any ransom.
8. Job Portal and Work-From-Home Fraud
Scammers offer fake jobs or remote work requiring “registration fees.”
These frauds target graduates through LinkedIn or WhatsApp job offers.
Legal Reference:
- IPC 420 – Cheating.
- IT Act 66D – Fraud via online impersonation.
9. Fake Charity and Lottery Scams
During natural disasters, fake NGOs and donation drives emerge.
Fraudsters use UPI handles mimicking real organizations to collect “relief funds.”
Always verify NGOs via NGO Darpan (ngodarpan.gov.in).
10. SIM Swap and Identity Theft Cases
In SIM swap scams, fraudsters duplicate your SIM using forged documents, intercept OTPs, and drain accounts.
Preventive Steps:
- Use biometric KYC.
- Enable SMS/email alerts for every bank transaction.
- Report SIM misuse to your telecom provider and CERT-In.
Legal Remedies Available under Indian Law
Victims can seek action under the following statutes:
| Law / Section | Provision Summary |
|---|---|
| IT Act, 2000 – Sec. 66C | Identity theft |
| IT Act, 2000 – Sec. 66D | Online cheating by impersonation |
| IT Act, 2000 – Sec. 67 | Obscene content / sextortion |
| IPC Sec. 419, 420 | Cheating & impersonation |
| IPC Sec. 468, 471 | Forgery & use of forged documents |
| RBI Circular (Jan 2024) | Fraud reporting within 3 working days for compensation eligibility |
| State of Tamil Nadu v. Suhas Katti (2004) | India’s first cybercrime conviction, upheld under Sec. 67 IT Act |
How to Report Online Fraud in Bihar
Follow these steps to file a cybercrime complaint:
- Visit the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
- Choose “Report Other Cybercrime” → Select Financial Fraud / Social Media.
- Upload evidence — screenshots, bank transaction proofs, or chat logs.
- Submit complaint → Note down reference ID.
- For urgent financial frauds, also contact your bank’s 24×7 fraud helpline.
Related: How to File a Cybercrime Complaint Online in Bihar
Prevention Tips & Cyber Hygiene for Citizens
- Never share OTPs or PINs, even with “bank officials.”
- Verify app developers and check permissions before installation.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Educate family members about phishing links.
- Regularly check CERT-In Security Advisories.
Conclusion – Legal Awareness for Digital Safety
As Bihar’s economy digitizes, cybercrime awareness becomes the first line of defense.
Every citizen — lawyer, business owner, or student — must stay vigilant and legally informed.
Remember, timely reporting improves fund recovery chances and helps law enforcement act swiftly.
If you’ve been a victim of online fraud, file a complaint now on Cybercrime.gov.in or consult a legal expert through Legal.Bihar.in for free guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What are the most common online scams in Bihar in 2025?
UPI frauds, fake loan apps, phishing links, and social media impersonation are top scams.
Q2. Can victims of cyber fraud recover their money?
Yes. Prompt reporting to the bank and police increases fund recovery chances.
Q3. Where can I file an online scam complaint in Bihar?
Visit cybercrime.gov.in or approach the nearest Cyber Police Station.
Q4. Which law punishes online scams in India?
Sections 66C and 66D of the IT Act, and IPC Sections 419–420, apply to online fraud.
Q5. How to verify a genuine app or website?
Use official app stores, verify SSL (https://), and avoid unknown WhatsApp/SMS links.
Q6. What documents are needed for a cyber complaint?
Keep screenshots, chat records, and transaction details as digital evidence.
Q7. Can minors be victims of cyber scams?
Yes. They’re vulnerable through gaming or social media — parental supervision is essential.
Q8. How long does it take to resolve a cybercrime case?
It depends on the investigation. Urgent financial cases get priority under RBI rules.
References
- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal – cybercrime.gov.in
- Reserve Bank of India – Consumer Awareness & Fraud Alerts
- CERT-In – Cybersecurity Advisories
- Information Technology Act, 2000 – indiankanoon.org
- State of Tamil Nadu v. Suhas Katti (2004)
About the Author – Advocate Tabish Ahmad
Advocate Tabish Ahmad (B.A. LL.B., LL.M., Diploma in Cyber Law – GLC Mumbai) is a Certified Cyber Law Practitioner and practising Advocate at the Patna High Court. He specializes in Cyber Crime, GST Litigation, and Tax Appeals, with extensive experience in representing clients before judicial and quasi-judicial forums.
He serves as President of the Cyber Lawyers Association and is a Member of the Advocates’ Association, Patna High Court. As a Mentor at the Indian Tax Academy and JurisCrack, he guides young lawyers and students in cyber and tax law practice.
Author of several books on Cyber Crimes, Taxation, and GST, Advocate Tabish Ahmad is recognized for his practical insights on digital law, data privacy, and cyber fraud defence.
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