Alertness key to preventing cyber fraud: SP

MAHABUBABAD: Mahabubabad District Superintendent of Police Dr Sabareesh, IPS, said alertness was the most effective weapon to protect oneself from cybercrimes.

The SP addressed students during a cyber awareness programme organised at the Ekalavya Model Residential School in Kuravi mandal. He also unveiled posters on cyber safety on the occasion.

Speaking at the programme, Dr Sabareesh said technology had become an integral part of education, banking, shopping and communication in the digital era. He advised students not to share personal information, passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs) or bank details with anyone while using social media, online games, digital payment platforms and online shopping services.

Beware of fake offers

Cybercriminals often send fake links and messages offering low prices, heavy discounts, free gifts and lucky draws during festivals and special occasions, the SP said. He warned that clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown applications could expose personal and financial information to fraudsters.

Do not fear ‘digital arrest’ threats

Dr Sabareesh said ‘digital arrest’ scams, in which fraudsters make video calls posing as police officials, CBI or Enforcement Directorate officers, or court authorities, were completely fake.

He said the fraudsters threaten victims in the name of criminal cases, keep them online for hours citing an investigation and pressure them to transfer money. Genuine government agencies never arrest people through video calls or direct them to pay money, he clarified.

The SP advised people receiving such calls to disconnect immediately and inform the police without panic.

Caution against fake social media accounts

Students should not share personal details, photographs or videos with strangers on social media, he said. Fraudsters may create fake accounts and profiles using the names of others to cheat people.

He advised people to verify requests for money purportedly sent by friends or relatives by contacting them directly before making any payment.

Educate parents and elders

Dr Sabareesh urged students to educate their parents, particularly senior citizens, about cyber frauds and digital safety measures. He said this would help protect family members from falling victim to cybercriminals.

Call 1930 immediately

People who lose money in online financial frauds should immediately contact the cybercrime helpline at 1930, the SP said. Prompt reporting could help in blocking or recovering the defrauded amount, he added.

He called upon the public and students to work alongside the police in preventing cybercrimes and share information about cyber safety with family members, friends and acquaintances.

A cyber-safe society could be built only through alertness, awareness and responsible use of digital technology, Dr Sabareesh said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KOTHA RAMESH

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