Patna: Bihar’s Cyber Crime and Security Unit has launched a major statewide crackdown against cyber criminals under the special campaign “Cyber Prahar 3.0”, taking action against 5,036 mule (fake) bank accounts linked to cyber fraud networks.
The action began on April 28, with authorities initiating strict measures against account holders identified through complaints registered on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP).
Action Against Over 5,000 Mule Bank Accounts
According to officials, a total of 5,078 complaints were analysed, leading to action against 5,036 suspicious mule account holders across the state.
These accounts are believed to have been used as intermediaries in cyber frauds, enabling illegal money transfers and digital scams.
Probe into Bank Employees and Branches
As part of the operation, investigations have also begun into:
- 22 bank branches under suspicion
- Employees linked to high number of mule account openings (2025–26)
- Possible negligence or involvement of bank staff
Authorities said strict verification is underway to identify internal lapses or collusion.
Continuation of “Cyber Prahar 2.0” Campaign
The current operation builds on the ongoing “Cyber Prahar 2.0” campaign, which has been active for the past two months.
Its focus areas include:
- Action against cyber criminals and digital fraud networks
- Monitoring suspicious SIM card vendors (POS agents)
- Crackdown on mule account operators
- Action against online child exploitation and objectionable content
The campaign aims to ensure swift and coordinated action against cyber-enabled crimes.
Major Achievements in 2026 So Far
During March–April 2026, Bihar’s cyber security unit achieved significant results under Cyber Prahar 2.0:
- 1,216 suspicious accounts identified
- 122 FIRs registered
- 234 arrests/notices issued
- Around ₹72 crore linked to cyber fraud cases under investigation
District-Wise Action on Mule Accounts
The highest number of mule accounts were detected in several districts:
- Patna: 272
- Motihari: 95
- Bhagalpur: 55
- Bettiah: 50
- Purnia: 49
- Vaishali: 44
- Muzaffarpur: 43
Action Against Bank Staff and SIM Vendors
Authorities also uncovered possible involvement of bank employees in some cases:
- 3 bank employees arrested (Bhojpur, Katihar, Patna)
- Evidence of negligence and possible collusion found
Additionally:
- 167 suspicious SIM card vendors identified
- Verification and investigation underway across districts
- SIMs linked to cyber fraud networks under scrutiny
Crackdown on Child Cyber Exploitation Cases
Based on Tipline reports:
- 20 suspicious individuals identified
- 3 FIRs registered
- 3 arrests made
- Digital devices seized for forensic examination
Investigations are ongoing in remaining cases.
Recent Cyber Crime Cases Under Investigation
Authorities also acted on multiple cyber cases:
- Patna Cyber PS Case No. 467/26 (April 10) – accused identified and arrested
- Patna Cyber PS Case No. 542/26 (April 24) – FIR registered and arrest made
- Vaishali Cyber PS Case No. 35/26 – one arrest based on Tipline input
Seized electronic devices have been sent for forensic analysis.
Focus on Digital Safety and Fraud Prevention
Officials said the campaign aims to:
- Break cyber fraud networks
- Prevent misuse of bank accounts and SIM cards
- Strengthen digital safety mechanisms
- Protect citizens from online financial fraud
The Cyber Crime and Security Unit of Bihar is responsible for investigating cyber offences, digital frauds, and online exploitation cases. It works in coordination with banks, telecom operators, and national agencies to strengthen cyber security and enforce strict action against offenders.
