Cyber kiosk installed at CP’s office, residents can scan devices for virus, threats

In a significant step towards enhancing cyber security awareness and protection for the public, a state-of-the-art cyber kiosk was inaugurated on Friday at the office of the Commissioner of Police (CP), here.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sanjeev Arora, Cabinet Minister, Punjab, who was the chief guest. He was joined by Commissioner of Police, Ludhiana, Swapan Sharma, and other senior officials from the Police Department.

The cyber kiosk is a specialised public-use machine designed to scan digital devices — such as mobile phones and tablets for malware, spyware and other cyber threats. Installed in a high-traffic government facility, the kiosk offers citizens a secure and convenient way to check their devices before accessing public Wi-Fi networks or transferring sensitive data.

Speaking at the event, Arora emphasised the importance of public cyber hygiene and praised the Ludhiana police for taking proactive steps to empower citizens with accessible cybersecurity tools.

He said such initiatives were vital for ensuring the safety and integrity of personal data in today’s increasingly digital world.

The CP also highlighted the department’s commitment to integrate smart technology in public safety efforts and encouraged citizens to utilise the kiosk as a preventive measure against cyber threats.

The initiative marks a progressive move in state’s broader digital security efforts and reflects a growing emphasis on public-oriented cyber infrastructure in the state.

ACP (cyber crime) Murad Jasvir Gill said it was the initiative of the Punjab Police wherein six such machines were installed at different police districts or commissionerates across the state and out of the six machines, Ludhiana Police Commissionerate also got one. While scanning any device, users’ data would not be stored anywhere in the machine or with the third party.

SHO, Cyber Crime police station inspector Satvir Singh said any resident could use the machine to scan a mobile phone or tablet after connecting them with a USB cable. In a minute or so, the machine will scan the entire device and would generate a report highlighting the virus, malicious file, application or any. A user can then act accordingly to keep the device safe.

Designed, developed by NFSU

It is designed and developed by National Forensic Science University (NFSU) with its technical partner Arishti Info Labs. It can track malicious mobile applications and files downloaded without users’ knowledge and banned applications. Besides police personnel, any resident can scan his/her mobile phone and a report will be generated after scanning the device.