The EditorStay Alert, Stay Safe: Police Launch Cyber Awareness Drive in Kaithal
Kaithal, April 18 – In response to the alarming rise in cybercrime, Kaithal Police have launched an extensive cyber awareness campaign across the district. The campaign, titled “Be Cyber Aware”, is being run under the guidance of SP Rajesh Kalia and the directions of the District Legal Services Authority, Kaithal. Through a series of helpdesks and public outreach efforts, the campaign aims to arm citizens with the knowledge and tools to stay safe in today’s digital world.
Rising Cyber Threats Demand Public Vigilance
As we advance in technology, our lives are increasingly dependent on the internet. From online shopping and banking to social media and digital payments, the internet touches every aspect of our daily routine. However, with this digital growth comes a dark side—cybercrime is growing just as fast.
Cyber criminals exploit vulnerabilities, often preying on those unfamiliar with the risks. The awareness campaign is designed to educate the public on how to identify, prevent, and report cyber fraud.
Helpdesks at Key Public Spots
On Friday, under SP Rajesh Kalia’s direction, the police teams set up cyber helpdesks at multiple prominent locations. These included:
- Kalayat College
- Kainchi Chowki
- District Secretariat
- Outside Kaithal District Court
These helpdesks, managed by the Cyber Crime Station Incharge PSI Shubhranshu and his team, attracted significant public engagement. People from all walks of life—students, government staff, businessmen, and senior citizens—stopped by to understand the nuances of cybercrime.
Awareness Is the Best Defence
During these sessions, officers shared practical tips for cyber safety. Citizens were reminded that:
- We now live in a digital-first era.
- With the rise in digital transactions, our exposure to cyber risk increases.
- Therefore, being informed is the first line of defense.
Citizens were urged to take simple, effective precautions. Awareness alone, the police emphasized, can prevent most online frauds.
Common Cybercrimes and How to Stay Safe
Police shared various types of online frauds seen frequently in Kaithal and nearby districts. They also outlined best practices to avoid falling into such traps:
1. Suspicious Links on Social Media
People were warned not to click on random links received via:
Many such links lead to phishing websites. These are designed to steal personal data like passwords or banking information.
❗ Tip: If the link seems too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Fraudulent Bank Messages and Calls
Scammers often send fake messages saying your ATM card has been blocked or your bank KYC needs updating. They trick people into sharing:
- OTP (One-Time Passwords)
- Account Numbers
- UPI PINs
This information is then misused to steal money directly from your account.
❗ Tip: No bank will ever ask for your PIN or password over the phone.
3. Easy Money Scams
One of the oldest tricks still in play: get-rich-quick schemes. Cybercriminals lure people with messages like:
- “Earn ₹10,000 per day from home”
- “Invest now, double your money in a week”
These scams are cleverly crafted to appear real. Victims are slowly pulled into a web of trust before being cheated.
❗ Tip: Don’t trust online schemes that promise quick cash with little work.
4. Fake Lotteries, Coupons, and Offers
A message saying “You’ve won ₹25 lakh” is usually a trap. Similarly, offers like free recharge coupons, online discounts, and lucky draws are often fake.
People were told never to share bank details or Aadhaar numbers with strangers online, especially when tempted by such fake rewards.
What To Do If You’re Scammed?
The police laid out a clear action plan in case someone falls prey to cyber fraud:
- Call the Cyber Helpline Number 1930 immediately.
- Lodge a report with your nearest police station.
- Visit the cyber helpdesk in your area for guidance.
Quick reporting is often the only way to stop a transaction or track down a cybercriminal before they vanish with your money.
Public Participation and Positive Feedback
The campaign saw active involvement from the local community. Many people appreciated the initiative, saying they had little understanding of cybercrime before attending the sessions.
Students, especially, expressed gratitude for the practical knowledge shared. The helpdesks allowed real-time interactions with officers, helping clear doubts in simple terms.
This openness built trust and encouraged people to report scams without fear.
Expanding the Campaign Across the District
Based on public response, police plan to expand this awareness campaign further. Soon, more helpdesks will be set up in:
- Villages
- Schools
- Banks
- Bus stands and railway stations
The goal is to create a cyber-aware district, where every citizen knows the basics of digital safety.
SP Rajesh Kalia stated, “Cybercrime can happen to anyone, anytime. We must equip every individual with the power of awareness.”
Technology Should Empower, Not Endanger
Cybercrime thrives when people are unaware. But with the right knowledge, even a basic smartphone user can protect themselves.
By being alert, questioning suspicious messages, and refusing to share personal details with unknown people, we can collectively make our community safer.
The Kaithal Police’s initiative is a strong reminder that technology should be a tool of progress, not fear. And in this fight against cyber fraud, awareness is our strongest weapon.
Final Word: Stay Informed, Report Fast
As cybercrime techniques evolve, so must public understanding. This campaign is not just about education—it’s about empowerment.
Remember:
- Don’t share OTPs or passwords
- Avoid clicking random links
- Say no to “easy money” messages
- Call 1930 at the first sign of fraud
Informed citizens create safe communities. And with continuous efforts like these, Kaithal moves a step closer to becoming cyber-smart and scam-free.
