Don’t Fall Victim: Pune Police Advises Citizens On Avoiding Cyber Scam Using Government Agencies Names

Mubarak Ansari

Pune, 5th April 2024: In an increasingly digitized world, the use of computers, the internet, and mobile devices has become ubiquitous, ranging from schoolwork for young children to online transactions for senior citizens. However, alongside the convenience offered by these technologies, cybercriminals are exploiting them to defraud unsuspecting citizens, caution Pune City Police.

Various online platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and Instagram, along with online banking and e-commerce websites, have become breeding grounds for cyber fraudsters. These criminals use tactics such as intimidation, false promises, and enticing offers to lure victims into financial traps.

Of particular concern is the misuse of the names of central agencies like INTERPOL, IB, CBI, and I4C by cybercriminals to instill fear in victims and extort money. Pretending to be government officials, these fraudsters send fake support letters through emails, coercing citizens into making online payments under the threat of legal action.

Pune City Police highlights the increasing prevalence of various online scams, including online tasks, drugs in couriers or parcels, trading fraud, phishing scams, social media fraud, and matrimonial fraud, among others. Even seemingly legitimate online transactions, such as booking flights or hotels, can be avenues for fraudsters to exploit.

To combat this menace, citizens are urged to exercise caution when dealing with online transactions and be vigilant against suspicious emails or messages. In case of falling victim to cyber fraud, individuals are encouraged to report the incident to the nearest police station or the Cyber Police Station at Police Headquarters in Shivajinagar. They can also reach out via email at [email protected] or register complaints on the cybercrime.gov.in website.

Vikrant Deshmukh, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and Cyber Crimes, Pune City, emphasizes the importance of citizen cooperation in combating cybercrime. Deshmukh urges individuals to report incidents of fraud promptly, emphasizing that anonymity will be maintained to prevent any societal stigma.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, Pune City Police underscores the critical role of public awareness and collaboration in safeguarding against online fraud and ensuring a safer digital environment for all.