Cybercrime surge: Over 91,000 bank accounts frozen in UP, 3,838 in Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur — A growing wave of cyber fraud has resulted in over 91,140 bank accounts being frozen across Uttar Pradesh since January 2025, with 3,838 linked to Gorakhpur alone. Many affected individuals discovered the freeze only when they visited their banks to withdraw money.

In one case, city resident Rakesh learned that his account — used for salary and household expenses — was blocked due to suspicious online gaming-related transactions. Another resident, Himanshu, faced a similar shock when he urgently needed funds, only to find his account frozen following a complaint lodged via cyber helpline 1930. In both cases, investigations revealed incoming funds tied to cybercrime from other states.

Officials say the situation is escalating rapidly — the number of frozen accounts in 2025 has already surpassed last year's total of 70,203. Cyber Cell officer Shashi Jaiswal said four to five people approach daily with similar complaints. After verification, fraudulent funds remain seized, and the remaining balance is released for essential use.

1,620 mule accounts under probe

Cybercriminals are increasingly using mule accounts — bank accounts operated in someone else’s name to launder illegal money. 1,620 such accounts have been identified in Gorakhpur, and investigations are underway. Officials warn that anyone sharing personal documents or opening accounts for others in exchange for money can be held legally responsible.

Five mistakes that lead to cyber fraud

• Clicking unknown links
• Installing APKs outside Play Store
• Keeping screen-sharing apps on phone
• Using the same password everywhere
• Sharing OTP with anyone

Safety first — what experts recommend

Cyber Commando Upendra Singh advised users to keep Google Play Protect active, use a separate low-limit virtual card for banking, and avoid sharing UPI PIN during screen sharing. He stressed that 90% of fraud begins with a single careless click.

Authorities urge citizens to remain cautious as cybercrime techniques evolve rapidly. Awareness, they emphasize, is the strongest shield against online fraud.