Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently highlighted the government’s proactive steps to tackle cyber fraud in the digital and telecom sectors. A strong network set up by the Home Ministry has reportedly prevented a fraud worth ₹4,000 crore, protecting public funds worth ₹10 lakh.
Innovative tools to combat fraudulent activities
The telecom sector has introduced various technological tools to combat fraud. A dedicated app led to the blocking of 2.75 lakh fraudulent phone numbers and blacklisting of 10,000 headers. Additionally, the caller identification system blocked 25-30 crore fraudulent calls within two months, indicating the government’s commitment to curb harmful activities.
Challenges in the era of advanced technology
While these measures represent significant progress, Scindia stressed that technical Progress Often come with potential abuse. The Minister acknowledged that despite preventive steps, scope for fraudulent activities remains, which requires constant vigilance and public awareness.
Raising awareness: a key component
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, highlighted the growing threats of digital fraud and urged citizens to remain vigilant. He warned against scams involving impersonation by fraudsters impersonating law enforcement officers, often referred to as “digital arrests”. These criminals exploit fear to extort money, which underlines the importance of public education in combating such threats.
the way forward
Combining advanced technology with public awareness campaigns, the government’s multi-pronged approach reflects its resolve to address cyber and telecom fraud. While important milestones have been achieved, the evolving nature of fraud has necessitated continued efforts to protect citizens and maintain confidence in digital progress.
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