Hyderabad, Dec 17
Cyberabad Police, in collaboration with the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), on Tuesday launched an awareness initiative P.R.O.T.E.C.T. (Preventing Risks Online Through Education, Collaboration, and Training).
Cyberabad Police Commissioner Avinash Mohanty announced project P.R.O.T.E.C.T, highlighting the support from mainstream media, social media influencers, students, and the police. Their collective efforts in raising awareness about cybercrimes will be instrumental in educating the public and preventing these crimes. Stating that cybercrime has become one of the fastest-growing challenges, he noted that these offenses are compounding at an alarming rate each year.
“One of the most concerning trends we see is digital arrest—where people, out of fear, end up sharing their bank details and personal information with fraudsters. I urge everyone not to do that. Always remember the most important number to combat cybercrimes: 1930. This helpline can save you from significant loss and distress,” said the Police Commissioner. He encouraged media, social media influencers, students, and police to join hands in spreading awareness about the 1930 helpline.
DCP Cyber Crimes Sreebala emphasized that in most cybercrimes, individuals not only lose money but sometimes even their lives. "We need education, collaboration, and continuous training to combat these crimes effectively," she stated. The initiative aims to empower citizens with critical knowledge about the latest cybercrimes and equip them to safeguard themselves against evolving threats.
The Cybercrime Mega Awareness Drive, scheduled for December 18, 2024, will be conducted across the Cyberabad Commissionerate. Police personnel and volunteers will actively engage with citizens through interactive sessions, street plays (Nukkad Natak), and other awareness activities at high-footfall locations such as colleges, corporate offices, malls, banks, parks, metro stations, and public hubs. The theme of P.R.O.T.E.C.T. is "Let’s join hands to create a secure digital future." Together, we can “Make A Difference On The Go!”
SCSC General Secretary Ramesh Kaza pointed out that many people have become victims of cybercrimes. From common citizens to prominent individuals, no one is immune to these offenses. He emphasized that the lack of awareness is a significant reason for the increasing rate of cybercrimes. He highlighted the importance of the "Each One, Teach One" approach, stressing that with collective awareness and collaboration, cybercrimes can be effectively controlled.
SCSC CEO Naved Khan explained that the project will operate through two teams: one team will consist of 50 to 60 SCSC volunteers, while the other will include 50 to 60 police officers. Each group will be formed with two members—one police officer and one traffic volunteer. These groups will visit banks, hotels, parks, schools, colleges, and other public places to interact with the public and spread awareness about cybercrimes.