Patna: In a significant step toward strengthening cyber security infrastructure in Bihar, the state Home Department has sanctioned ₹14.74 crore for the establishment of a Security Operation Center (SOC) under the Economic Offenses Unit (EOU). The new center will act as a dedicated hub for combating rising cybercrime, enhancing cybersecurity, and safeguarding government systems from digital threats.
The announcement was made by Additional Director General (EOU) Nayyar Hasnain Khan during a press conference held at Sardar Patel Bhawan, Police Headquarters.
State-of-the-Art Facility to Be Developed in Phased Manner
The upcoming Security Operation Center will be set up in phases and equipped with cutting-edge software and hardware tools to monitor, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats and cybercrime. ADG Khan emphasized the center’s importance in improving the effectiveness of ongoing cyber investigations and enabling swift action against cybercriminals.
“Timely and concrete steps are being taken to address all aspects of cybercrime. The Security Operation Center will enhance our ability to handle and prevent such incidents in the state,” he said.
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Cyber Fraud Learned via YouTube and Google, Says ADG
During the press briefing, ADG Khan also highlighted the arrest of three cybercriminals—Rampravesh Kumar, Vikas Kumar, and Mithilesh Kumar—from Kapasia village in Madhepura district. Shockingly, the trio admitted to learning sophisticated cyber fraud techniques via YouTube and Google.
They allegedly:
- Downloaded Aadhaar verification software,
- Illegally accessed biometric data,
- Used silicone fingerprints to impersonate identities for fraud.
A case has been registered with the EOU, and investigations are ongoing in coordination with central cyber agencies like CDAC. Authorities are probing how such sensitive fraud-related content is easily accessible on open platforms like YouTube and Google.
EOU Takes Action Against Corrupt Government Officials
In separate developments, the EOU has taken legal action in disproportionate assets (DA) cases against two senior government officials:
Vinay Saurabh – District Sub-Registrar, Bhagalpur
Illegally amassed assets worth 188% more than his known income.
Vinod Kumar Rai – Superintendent Engineer, Madhubani Rural Works Division
Found with 69.35% disproportionate assets.
A large cache of cash and burnt currency notes was recovered from his residence.
Rai has been arrested and sent to jail, while his wife, Babli Rai, is absconding.
MLA Horse-Trading Case: Two Lawmakers Questioned by EOU
The ADG also informed that the EOU is continuing its investigation into the MLA horse-trading case, where political maneuvering for legislative support was suspected. Two MLAs, Bhagirathi Devi and Dilip Rai, have already been questioned.
So far-
- 5 MLAs,
- 6 political aides/private individuals,
- 9 bodyguards have been interrogated in connection with the case.
The investigation is ongoing, and further action is likely.
Officials Present
The press conference was also attended by DIG (Cyber) Sanjay Kumar Singh, who emphasized the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the need for comprehensive action.
