Rising online fraud cases highlight urgent need for digital literacy and public vigilance across Kashmir
Srinagar: Amid a steady rise in cybercrime cases across Kashmir, the Crime Branch Kashmir on Tuesday organised a cybercrime awareness workshop in Srinagar, underscoring the growing importance of public education in tackling digital threats and online fraud.
The workshop brought together officials, students, professionals and members of the public to sensitise them about the evolving nature of cybercrimes, including online financial frauds, identity theft, phishing scams, social media misuse and cyber stalking. Experts from the Crime Branch highlighted how rapid digitalisation, increased smartphone usage and online transactions have expanded the vulnerability of citizens, particularly the elderly and first-time internet users.
Addressing the participants, officials noted that cybercriminals are constantly adopting new methods to exploit unsuspecting users. They stressed that many cyber offences can be prevented through basic precautions such as safeguarding personal information, verifying online sources, using strong passwords and promptly reporting suspicious activities. “Lack of awareness remains one of the biggest enablers of cybercrime,” an official said, adding that timely reporting helps law enforcement agencies take swift action and prevent further losses.
The workshop also focused on legal provisions related to cyber offences and the mechanisms available for victims to seek redressal. Participants were informed about cybercrime helplines, online reporting portals and the role of the Crime Branch in investigating complex digital crimes. Real-life case studies from across Kashmir were shared to illustrate how minor lapses often lead to significant financial and emotional losses.
With Kashmir witnessing an increase in online banking, digital payments and social media engagement, officials emphasised that cyber safety must become a shared responsibility. Public awareness, they said, is the most effective first line of defence against cyber threats.
Participants welcomed the initiative and called for such workshops to be held regularly, especially in educational institutions and rural areas where digital awareness remains limited. The Crime Branch Kashmir reiterated its commitment to strengthening community outreach programmes, stating that informed and vigilant citizens are crucial to curbing the growing menace of cybercrime in the region.
Srinagar: Amid a steady rise in cybercrime cases across Kashmir, the Crime Branch Kashmir on Tuesday organised a cybercrime awareness workshop in Srinagar, underscoring the growing importance of public education in tackling digital threats and online fraud.
The workshop brought together officials, students, professionals and members of the public to sensitise them about the evolving nature of cybercrimes, including online financial frauds, identity theft, phishing scams, social media misuse and cyber stalking. Experts from the Crime Branch highlighted how rapid digitalisation, increased smartphone usage and online transactions have expanded the vulnerability of citizens, particularly the elderly and first-time internet users.
Addressing the participants, officials noted that cybercriminals are constantly adopting new methods to exploit unsuspecting users. They stressed that many cyber offences can be prevented through basic precautions such as safeguarding personal information, verifying online sources, using strong passwords and promptly reporting suspicious activities. “Lack of awareness remains one of the biggest enablers of cybercrime,” an official said, adding that timely reporting helps law enforcement agencies take swift action and prevent further losses.
The workshop also focused on legal provisions related to cyber offences and the mechanisms available for victims to seek redressal. Participants were informed about cybercrime helplines, online reporting portals and the role of the Crime Branch in investigating complex digital crimes. Real-life case studies from across Kashmir were shared to illustrate how minor lapses often lead to significant financial and emotional losses.
With Kashmir witnessing an increase in online banking, digital payments and social media engagement, officials emphasised that cyber safety must become a shared responsibility. Public awareness, they said, is the most effective first line of defence against cyber threats.
Participants welcomed the initiative and called for such workshops to be held regularly, especially in educational institutions and rural areas where digital awareness remains limited. The Crime Branch Kashmir reiterated its commitment to strengthening community outreach programmes, stating that informed and vigilant citizens are crucial to curbing the growing menace of cybercrime in the region.
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