Maharashtra Cyber Leverages AI to Combat Cybercrime

Maharashtra Cyber has embarked on a transformative journey by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its cybercrime prevention arsenal. Building upon the success of its 1930 cyber helpline, the state’s cyber unit has established a dedicated AI Unit to enhance its capabilities in combating cyber threats.

DIG Sanjay Shintre of Maharashtra Cyber revealed that AI will be pivotal in several areas, including data analysis, pattern recognition, digital forensics, and behavioural analysis. “The integration of AI will assist our team in managing evidence, conducting legal research, and preparing case strategies,” Shintre noted. AI’s role extends to generating actionable statistics and analytics, enabling better trend forecasting, spatial-temporal analysis, and efficient resource allocation. The new AI-driven strategies will also support training and capacity building initiatives, promote cyber awareness, and employ generative AI to create targeted advisories for public dissemination on social media.

“By leveraging AI across these diverse applications, Maharashtra Cyber aims to bolster its effectiveness in tackling cybercrime and enhancing public safety,” added the Special IG of Maharashtra Cyber. The 1930 cyber helpline, a cornerstone of Maharashtra Cyber’s efforts, has seen remarkable success since its implementation. Handling between 4,000 and 5,000 calls daily, the helpline has achieved a 100% response rate. This has been instrumental in swiftly addressing cybercrime incidents. Since its inception on November 21, 2023, the helpline has maintained a perfect answer rate, supported by 20 operational lines and a dedicated team of over 110 personnel working around the clock.

A notable case underscoring the helpline’s effectiveness occurred on July 19, 2024, when Maharashtra Cyber received a complaint regarding fraudulent transactions amounting to INR 40 crore. In a rapid response, the cyber team coordinated with financial intermediaries and managed to place a hold on approximately INR 31 crore by the same evening. Ongoing follow-up efforts have secured a total hold of INR 32,89,87,709.99, with FIR registration proceedings in progress.