PRAYAGRAJ, July 28 -- Online investment traps, fake part-time job offers, and Telegram-based fraud networks have emerged as major platforms for cyber crimes in Prayagraj, prompting a year-long crackdown by the district's Cyber Cell. Between July 2024 and June 2025, authorities blocked 10,400 SIM cards, 612 mobile phone IMEI numbers, and 59 mule bank accounts allegedly linked to these digital scams, officials said on Monday.

Many of the SIM cards were issued using fake identities and were reportedly used by interstate and international gangs to lure victims with promises of high profits and quick earnings. The fraudsters often guided users to join Telegram channels under the pretext of giving free tips on stock markets, remote jobs, or fi...