Kathmandu— Cyber-enabled fraud is on the rise in Nepal, with criminals employing at least 16 different online and electronic methods to deceive the public. According to Nepal Police, the Cyber Bureau received 7,379 complaints of online fraud during the latest fiscal year, marking a significant increase from previous years.

Increasing Incidents and Recoveries

The number of cyber fraud incidents reported to the Nepal Police has steadily increased over the past three fiscal years. In fiscal year 2023/24, the Cyber Bureau received 4,255 complaints, which rose to 6,740 in 2024/25 and reached a peak of 7,379 in 2025/26.

Despite the growing number of cases, police have managed to recover significant amounts of money from suspected fraudsters. In fiscal year 2025/26 alone, authorities recovered Rs. 190 million and returned it to victims.

Diverse Scam Methods

Criminals are targeting victims through various digital platforms such as social media, online banking, digital wallets, and e-commerce services. Common methods include hacking Facebook accounts, creating fake profiles, sending fraudulent requests for bank or wallet updates, and stealing One-Time Passwords (OTPs) to access financial accounts.

During the FIFA World Cup, fraudsters exploited public enthusiasm by launching fake mobile applications claiming to provide free match streaming, cheating football fans out of Rs. 23.4 million.

Police Recommendations

Kathmandu District Police Range’s Superintendent of Police (SP) Dan Bahadur Thapa advised the public to remain highly cautious while making online purchases and urged consumers to choose the ‘Cash on Delivery’ option whenever possible. He also warned against pressure tactics used by online sellers and advised people not to trust unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to represent banks or digital wallet companies.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant, stating that awareness and responsible digital practices are the strongest safeguards against increasingly sophisticated online scams.

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.