**Karnataka Establishes Cyber Command Unit to Combat Cybercrime**
In a pivotal move to bolster cybersecurity and tackle the rising tide of digital offenses, the Karnataka government has sanctioned the creation of a specialized Cyber Command Unit. This initiative aims to streamline efforts in preventing and investigating technology-related crimes throughout the state. The formal approval was granted via a government order dated April 9, 2025.
The Cyber Command Unit will function under the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department and will be led by a newly appointed Director General of Cyber Command. Notably, the establishment of this unit will not require the creation of new positions or infrastructure, ensuring that there is no additional financial burden on the state’s budget.
This decision follows alarming statistics presented by the Director General and Inspector General of Police, indicating that Karnataka has seen over 52,000 cybercrime cases in the past four years. These incidents account for nearly 20% of total crimes in urban areas, with digital offenses now outpacing traditional crimes such as robbery and dacoity.
The newly formed Cyber Crimes Prevention Unit will integrate the operations of all 43 Cyber, Economics, and Narcotics (CEN) police stations across the state, along with two specialized cybercrime police stations located in Bengaluru and other areas. In total, 45 police stations will operate under the jurisdiction of the Cyber Command Unit, each responsible for addressing various types of cybercrime and related offenses.
These police stations will be empowered to act under several legal frameworks, including the Information Technology Act of 2000, relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code concerning financial fraud, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967, the Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act of 2000, the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act of 2019, and laws pertaining to human trafficking and financial crimes.
In addition to law enforcement duties, the Director General of Cyber Command will also serve as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) under the Karnataka Cyber Security Policy-2023. This role includes representation on inter-departmental coordination committees aimed at combating misinformation and addressing broader cyber threats.
With the establishment of the Cyber Command Unit, the Karnataka government aims to present a unified and proactive approach to the rapidly changing landscape of cybercrime, ensuring enhanced protection for citizens and the state’s digital infrastructure.
**FAQ**
**What is the purpose of the Cyber Command Unit in Karnataka?**
The Cyber Command Unit aims to prevent and investigate technology-driven crimes, consolidating efforts across the state to enhance cybersecurity and protect citizens from digital offenses.
