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‘Project P.R.O.T.E.C.T.’ to combat cybercrimes launched in Hyderabad

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Cyberabad Police Launch 'Project PROTECT

Hyderabad: From bustling tiffin centers to the lively atmosphere of parks, bus stops, malls, schools, and college campuses, Cyberabad Police officers and volunteers are engaging with the public in an innovative and interesting way to raise awareness about cybercrimes.

To combat the growing threat of cybercrimes, the Cyberabad Police, along with the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), officially launched the Mega Cybercrime Awareness Drive on December 17, 2024, as part of their comprehensive initiative Project P.R.O.T.E.C.T. (Preventing Risks Online Through Education, Collaboration, and Training).

The drive aims to reach citizens across Hyderabad by targeting high-traffic areas, including parks, tiffin centers, bus stops, malls, hospitals, schools, colleges, and even digital platforms. Its goal is to educate the public on how to identify and avoid common cybercrimes, such as phishing, financial scams, and social engineering attacks.

One of the most engaging aspects of the drive was when police officers and SCSC volunteers visited popular public spaces like Botanical Garden Park, busy tiffin centers such as Shawarma Corner, and vibrant college campuses. There, they distributed informative posters, flyers, and engaged with the public face-to-face.

Through interactive sessions and street plays (Nukkad Nataks), they educated passersby on how to protect themselves from common cybercrimes, such as the concerning ‘Digital Arrest’ scam, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officers to intimidate victims into transferring money.

Yesterday’s launch event also featured the unveiling of new awareness posters by Cyberabad CP, Avinash Mohanty, focusing on critical topics such as 1930, digital arrest, safe jobs, and trading fraud. “Cybercrime is evolving at a rapid pace, and public awareness is our best defense against it,” said CP Avinash Mohanty.

cybercrime awareness initiative

The ‘Digital Arrest’ fraud, which was a key focus of the campaign, involves scammers posing as police officers and falsely accusing victims of illegal activities, such as money laundering. They then use fear tactics to convince victims to transfer large sums of money to avoid arrest. One recent case involved a 40-year-old woman who was coerced into transferring Rs 1.22 crore over the course of five days.

SCSC CEO, Naved Khan, explained the logistics behind the drive, noting that the project operates through two teams, each consisting of 50 to 60 volunteers and 50 to 60 police officers. These teams visit various public spaces, including banks, parks, schools, colleges, and malls, to engage directly with citizens, answer questions, and provide critical tips on how to protect themselves from cyber threats.

Project P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Hyderabad

The initiative’s goal is not only to raise awareness but also to actively involve the public in reporting cybercrimes. Cyber Crimes ACP, Chandrakanth, highlighted the importance of prompt action, urging citizens to report cybercrimes immediately to the 1930 helpline, as the first few hours are crucial for recovering lost money. He also advised people to avoid relying on customer care numbers found through search engines, as these may lead to fraudulent websites.

The Cybercrime Mega Awareness Drive is part of an ongoing effort to create a cyber-safe ecosystem for all citizens of Hyderabad. With activities spanning popular locations like Nexus Mall in KPHB, Inorbit Mall in Madhapur, and Sutherlands Company in Lanco Hills, the drive is set to continue throughout the week, reaching thousands of individuals and encouraging proactive reporting of cybercrimes.

 Digital Arrest Scam

Public Advisory from Cyber Crime Unit

The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Cyber Crime Unit, Hyderabad City, has issued an important advisory to the public:

• Do not receive calls from unknown numbers.
• If you receive threatening video calls claiming to be from agencies such as CBI, RBI, ED, Customs, judges, cybercrime police, Narcotics, FedEx, BSNL, TRAI, etc., do not panic.
• If a call raises suspicion, immediately disconnect the call and refrain from engaging with the caller. If necessary, report the matter to the nearest police station.
• Government agencies or law enforcement officials will never make such Skype calls and demand money to resolve any issues. There is no such concept as “digital arrest.”
• Scammers often use psychological tactics to manipulate victims into making hasty decisions. Never transfer money to unknown bank accounts based on false promises.

If you are a victim of cyber fraud, immediately call the helpline number 1930 or register a case on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in. Reporting the crime immediately may help you recover at least a part of the lost or frozen funds.