Government Launches e-Zero FIR to Curb Cyber Fraud Crisis

Between 2022 and 2024, Indians lost ₹1,935.51 crore to digital arrest scams. In 2024 alone, India reported 123,672 cases involving such scams. To tackle this problem, the Indian government has launched the e-Zero FIR system as a pilot project in Delhi. It is designed to automatically convert high-value cybercrime complaints into FIRs.

How Does the e-Zero FIR System Work?

As per the new system, complaints made through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) or the 1930 Helpline will be automatically converted into Zero FIRs — if the case involves more than ₹10 lakh.

These FIRs are instantly registered at the e-Crime Police Station in Delhi and routed to the concerned local police station. Victims then have 3 days to convert the Zero FIR into a regular FIR, making the process smoother and faster.

Why Do Speed and Context Matter?

Cybercrimes have become part of large, coordinated networks. Therefore, understanding the speed and context of a cyberattack is critical. If people report a cyber scam within the first 60 minutes of its occurrence (or the golden hour), there is a 23% chance of recovering any financial losses incurred.

With the introduction of the e-zero FIR, the police can speed up investigations into cyber fraud cases, cut red tape, and bring cybercriminals to justice faster.

Read more on: What is the LocalCircles Survey Saying About Whatsapp Scams in India?

Why the e-Zero FIR System is Necessary?  

Between 2022 and 2024, the number of digital arrest scams — where fraudsters pose as police or officials to extort money — nearly tripled. To tackle this crisis, the Home Ministry set up the I4C. Since its inception, it has already blocked over 83,668 WhatsApp accounts and 3,962 Skype IDs linked to cases of cyber fraud and digital arrest.

A Nationwide Rollout of e-Zero FIR System Lies Ahead

Currently active in Delhi, the e-Zero FIR system will soon be rolled out nationwide as part of the government’s broader mission to create a Cyber-Secure Bharat.

As digital scams evolve and multiply, the government’s message is clear: cybercriminals will face quicker, tougher consequences.

Conclusion 

With cybercrime reaching record levels, the e-Zero FIR initiative brings much-needed urgency and efficiency to India’s digital crime-fighting efforts. By combining technology, real-time reporting, and nationwide coordination, the government is preparing to fight cyber fraud on a large scale.

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