New Delhi, Dec. 23: The Union home ministry has prodded e-commerce companies to strengthen their cyber security systems, citing the rise in their volume of business and subsequent complaints from customers.

The advisory comes shortly after digital e-wallet company Paytm lodged a complaint with the CBI alleging some of its employees had colluded with a group of customers to swindle the company.

"Security agencies too have received intelligence saying anti-national elements could exploit the vulnerabilities of digital transactions amid the surge in business volumes. Hacking groups have in the recent past stolen data of bank debit-card holders in significant numbers," a ministry official said.

The Narendra Modi government has been promoting digital transactions since the November 8 note recall.

"Business volumes through e-commerce platforms and payments through digital mode are likely to further increase in the coming months. This is why the e-commerce platforms have been asked to beef up their cyber security systems so that the customers are not cheated," the official said.

Strengthening of cyber security is expected to minimise attacks by organised crime networks and protect consumers from unnecessary hassles.

Paytm has alleged it was fraudulently led to refund several customers despite successful delivery of their orders.