Examining Online Frauds in Maharashtra and Proposing Sustainable Solutions for Prevention: A Case Study

Maharashtra, a leading state in India in terms of digital adoption, has also witnessed a surge in online fraud cases. These frauds encompass a wide range of activities, including phishing scams, identity theft, credit card fraud, and sophisticated ransomware attacks targeting individuals, small businesses, and large corporations.Maharashtra, one of India's most digitally advanced states, has become a high-incidence region for various forms of online fraud. These fraudulent activities have escalated alongside the proliferation of internet access and digital payment systems, making individuals, businesses, and even government entities vulnerable to cybercrime. The state reports thousands of cases annually, ranging from phishing and identity theft to highly organized cyber extortion schemes, each employing increasingly sophisticated technologies and social engineering tactics.