From Phishing to Crypto Laundering: How Cyber Hawk 3.0 Exposed Fraud Networks

As cybercrime continues to threaten millions of Indians, Delhi Police have intensified their battle against online fraud through Operation Cyber Hawk 3.0. The latest phase has led to the arrest of over 500 suspects, exposing vast digital scam networks operating across states and platforms.

A Massive Push Against Cybercrime

The initiative targets criminal networks involved in phishing, fake customer care scams, investment fraud, and digital payment theft.

Using advanced technical tools, real-time intelligence, and financial tracking systems, investigators have been able to map digital footprints, trace money trails, and identify key operatives within cybercrime syndicates. These coordinated efforts have enabled swift arrests and legal action against hundreds of offenders.

Officials said the operation is part of a broader strategy to strengthen India’s cybersecurity framework and protect citizens from rapidly evolving online threats.

How Technology Is Powering the Crackdown

A major strength of Cyber Hawk 3.0 lies in its technology-driven approach. Police teams analysed call data, internet activity, banking transactions, and cryptocurrency movements to uncover hidden links between scammers and their financial handlers.

This digital forensics-based model has helped authorities disrupt fraudulent infrastructure, shut down illegal communication channels, and freeze suspect accounts. By combining cyber expertise with field operations, Delhi Police have significantly weakened organised online crime networks.

The current operation builds on earlier breakthroughs. In January, Delhi Police’s East District dismantled a syndicate operating between Delhi, Moradabad, and Bareilly. The group was found using mule bank accounts to launder money into overseas cryptocurrency wallets.

Investigators seized cash, debit cards, mobile phones, and SIM cards, and traced dozens of bank accounts linked to hundreds of cybercrime complaints. These findings revealed how domestic fraud operations are often connected to international financial channels.

Rising Arrests Across Multiple Phases

Operation Cyber Hawk has steadily expanded in scale and impact. During the second phase in December 2025, nearly 300 people were arrested, and legal action was initiated against thousands of suspects.

Earlier, in November 2025, a coordinated 48-hour drive resulted in the detention of more than 700 cybercriminals. That operation uncovered suspicious digital transactions worth nearly ₹1,000 crore, highlighting the vast economic damage caused by cyber fraud.

Officials also noted that the first phase of the campaign led to a significant reduction in distress calls to the national cybercrime helpline, reflecting growing public confidence in law enforcement.

According to senior police officials, Cyber Hawk is not merely an enforcement exercise but a preventive initiative aimed at restoring trust in digital platforms. With online banking, e-commerce, and digital payments becoming central to daily life, protecting users has become a top priority.

The operation focuses on dismantling entire crime ecosystems rather than targeting isolated offenders. By arresting recruiters, money mules, technical operators, and masterminds, police aim to permanently disrupt fraud networks.

Authorities have confirmed that monitoring and enforcement will continue in the coming weeks, with further arrests expected.

A Long-Term Fight Against Digital Crime

Operation Cyber Hawk 3.0 reflects a shift in policing strategy, where technology, intelligence, and inter-agency coordination play a central role. As cybercriminals adopt more sophisticated tools, law enforcement agencies are evolving in parallel.

The success of this operation sends a strong message that digital anonymity will no longer shield criminals. With sustained vigilance and advanced investigation methods, Delhi Police aim to make cyberspace safer for millions of users.

(With inputs from ANI)