Telangana Director General of Police B Shivdhar Reddy launched the 'Jaagrut Hyderabad – Surakshit Hyderabad' campaign to curb rising cyber crimes through widespread self-awareness. The initiative focuses on grassroots education, cyber patrolling, and recruiting volunteers called ‘Cyber Simbhas’ to protect citizens from fraud, especially targeting women, elderly, and homemakers.
In response to a decade-long rise in cyber crimes, Telangana DGP B Shivdhar Reddy inaugurated a state-wide cyber crime prevention campaign at the Jalavayu Tower Community Hall in Kavadiguda, Hyderabad. Named ‘Jaagrut Hyderabad – Surakshit Hyderabad’ (Aware Hyderabad – Safe Hyderabad), the movement aims to empower citizens with knowledge and vigilance to prevent cyber frauds.
The campaign introduced the ‘Cyber Simbha’ volunteer program, with badges, logos, and QR codes distributed among volunteers who will promote awareness door-to-door and across public spaces. Cybercrime, often perpetrated through phone calls, social media, and online interactions, predominantly targets women, elderly, and homemakers vulnerable to isolated fraud attempts.
Police Commissioner V C Sajjanar highlighted that cybercriminals exploit greed and fear, resulting in losses up to ₹1 crore daily just within Hyderabad. Active cyber patrolling, strong public advisories on avoiding suspicious links and calls, and quick reporting mechanisms via helpline 1930 and the national Cyber Crime portal are vital components.
The DGP urged youth, retired persons, and community members to amplify the campaign by spreading awareness. “If every household has at least one Cyber Simbha aware of frauds, the society will be much safer,” he said.
Key Highlights
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Launch of ‘Jaagrut Hyderabad – Surakshit Hyderabad’ state-wide cybercrime prevention campaign.
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‘Cyber Simbha’ volunteer network deployed for grassroots awareness and vigilance drives.
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Cyber crimes rising sharply, targeting women, elderly, and homemakers.
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Hyderabad residents lose approximately ₹1 crore daily to cyber frauds.
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Strong focus on cyber patrolling, public advisories, reporting mechanisms (helpline 1930, Cyber Crime portal).
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Community involvement urged to create a wide-reaching protective movement against cyber frauds.
Sources: The Hans India, Times of India, UNI India, Deccan Chronicle