24x7 help desk launched for cybercrime victims

Tribune News Service

Patiala, August 6

The cybercrime cell was upgraded with the launch of 24x7 cyber help desk on Saturday. Deepak Pareek, SSP, Patiala, said cases of cybercrime and online frauds were increasing with the advancement and availability of technology.

Timely action on a complaint ensures higher chances of reversal of the fraudulent transactions and return of the lost money to victims. A complainant can come to the cyber help desk window anytime and enquire about the status of his/her complaint. — Deepak Pareek, SSP, Patiala

The police said they had modernised and remodelled their cyber cell with launch of the 24x7 cyber help desk window in their endeavour to serve citizens better and provide a more professional interface to cybercrime victims.

SSP Deepak Pareek said, “Some of the most common online frauds, include OTP, OLX, insurance, Paytm and GPay frauds, fake social media accounts and cyber stalking. In many cases immediate reporting of cybercrime to the police and banks helps in getting money back by blocking transactions/accounts of cybercriminals.” “Immediate reporting of the cybercrime incident is of utmost importance,” said the SSP.

“In around 60 per cent cyber fraud cases, it has been observed that victims prefer to meet police officials physically to better explain their complaint and feel assured that timely action will be taken,” the SSP said.

“The cyber help desk window will be manned by experts from the cyber cell, who will receive victims’ complaints and initiate immediate action,” the SSP added.

“Timely action on the complaint ensures a higher chances of reversal of the fraudulent transactions and return of the lost money to victims. A complainant can come to the cyber help desk window anytime and enquire about the status of his/her complaint,” the SSP said.

Mukhwinder Singh Chhina, IGP, Patiala Range, said, “Experts at the cyber help desk will also assist victims of the cyber fraud, who are not able to draft a complaint due to illiteracy or paucity of funds. This service will be free of cost.”

During the period from May 5, 2022, to August 1, 2022, the cyber crime cell disposed of 927 applications out of total 1,131 applications. The police said an FIR was registered in connection with15 applications. An amount of Rs 32,76,426, which involved 49 applications of fraud and 112 mobiles, was recovered and returned to applicants, the police added.

Ajitpal Singh Kohli, local MLA, and Dr Balbir Singh, MLA (Rural), were present during the inauguration of the helpline.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.

#cyber crime