Haryana, India Police to observe ‘cybersecurity Awareness Month’

The police have planned awareness campaigns focusing on topics like multi-factor authentication, strong passwords, software updates, identifying online fraudsters, preventing financial fraud, and safe use of social media.

Following the instructions of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and considering the high incidence of cybercrimes, Haryana Police has decided to observe ‘cybersecurity month’. The state police’s cyber cell helpline number (1930) has been receiving at least 1,000 calls daily.

The police have planned awareness campaigns focusing on topics like multi-factor authentication, strong passwords, software updates, identifying online fraudsters, preventing financial fraud, and safe use of social media. Nodal Officer OP Singh (ADGP, state crime branch) will monitor the cyber security programme.

The theme was ‘see yourself in cyber’ is to make people feel safe and confident in cyberspace. The Police force decided to involve the most important sections of society, women and children, amongst others. The increasing number of calls is a testament to Haryana Police’s awareness initiatives. Crime reporting is the greatest contribution to preventing any crime and it is also a sign of an aware society. This is the result of the tireless efforts of Haryana Police, which has recovered around Rs 15 crore so far from cyber thugs,” a state police spokesperson said.

The awareness programme covered different issues “Interactive sessions, painting, poetry singing, girl’s self-defence techniques and public speaking, stage performance, loudspeaker announcements in various schools and colleges under the leadership of nodal officers will be conducted. Programmes like Cyber Choupal will also be held,” the spokesperson said. A run against cybercrimes is also planned for National Unity Day