Kolkata Police has launched a round-the-clock cybercrime helpline to assist citizens with complaints and queries related to digital fraud and online offences at any time. The number will operate 24×7 for residents under the jurisdiction of Kolkata Police.
The helpline was inaugurated by Kolkata Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar at the Cyber Police Station inside the police headquarters at Lalbazar. Officials said that citizens can now report cyber fraud at any time and receive guidance on the immediate steps to take if they fall victim to digital scams.
The toll-free number
1800-345-0066
As per media reports, Kolkata Police currently receives around 1,000–1,200 cybercrime complaints every month, with nearly 80 per cent related to financial fraud and the remaining 20 per cent involving impersonation or social media abuse. So far, around 25 per cent of the money lost in cyber fraud cases has been recovered.
Alongside the helpline, Kolkata Police has introduced a Specialised Blocking Cell to monitor and block phone numbers, SIM cards, APK files, IP addresses and URLs used in cyber offences. The unit will track the digital resources used to commit crimes and block them to prevent further fraud.
A monthly newsletter titled ‘Cyber Pass’ was also launched to raise awareness about cyber threats and promote safe online practices. Police urged citizens to immediately report any instance of cyber fraud and emphasised that digital safety is as important as physical security.
Overwhelming public response, wide range of cyber complaints
The response to the new cyber helpline has been overwhelming, with more than 200 calls already received. Most queries relate to device or phone hacking, fraudulent hotel booking websites, and bank accounts being frozen or marked with a lien. Citizens have also reported scams through shopping links on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, along with complaints of investment and loan fraud.
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Several callers raised concerns about so-called “digital arrest” attempts by fraudsters posing as officials from different police agencies. The helpline has also received requests for recovery in cases dating back five to six years, as well as jurisdiction-related queries, including contact details of cyber cells and cybercrime police stations across West Bengal.
