Over 500 apps blocked over cyber fraud, says Amit Shah

New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry has blocked over 500 apps that were being used to commit fraud and spoofing in India.

Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the apps have been blocked on Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre's (I4C) recommendations due to security reasons and action has been taken as per law. "Cyber security is no longer limited to the digital world. It is a matter of national security and the Modi government is committed to ensuring that the digital world is safe and secure for everyone," he added.

He was speaking at the NDCC Bhawan in Delhi to review the working of the cybercrime centre. The unit prepared a report on the top 50 cyber attacks in India and shared it with the states.

The home ministry's Cyber Crime Helpline number 1930 is now linked with over 250 banks and financial intermediaries to ensure the safety of establishments. "It assists law enforcement agencies in taking real-time action and restricting the flow of fraudulent funds. Due to the quick reporting system and action of the task force, Rs 235 crores embezzled by cybercriminals from over 1.33 lakh people have been recovered so far," said the minister.

Over one crore fingerprints are integrated with the National Automatic Fingerprint Identification System. And the Centre is now training officers to conduct cyber investigations and forensics. AIIMS cyber attack is one of the cases being probed.

"The I4C will organise Cyber Jagarukta Diwas on the first Wednesday of every month to reach out to all states and help promote cyber hygiene," said Amit Shah.