In a significant move to strengthen the capabilities of the ‘Cyber Helpline 1930’, Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav inaugurated an enhanced call centre on Monday to help people report cyber financial frauds in real time. Additionally, DGP Yadav launched the ‘Cyber Mittar Chatbot’, a digital assistant designed to provide instant support for queries related to cybercrime.
As part of the inauguration, DGP Yadav made a test call to the 1930 helpline, interacting with a representative to ensure the seamless functioning of the service. The helpline is part of the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS), an initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs under the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C). It enables victims of cyber financial fraud to freeze funds in the accounts of the accused or suspects immediately after reporting the fraud.
The 1930 Helpline has been operational in Punjab since September 2021, and the newly enhanced system aims to improve response times and fraud prevention. DGP Yadav emphasized that these innovations will boost cybercrime reporting and ensure quicker resolutions, empowering citizens to navigate the digital landscape safely. The Cyber Mittar Chatbot will offer 24/7 assistance, ensuring prompt and confidential support for users.
“To date, 26,625 complaints of cyber fraud have been reported via the 1930 Helpline and NCRP portal in Punjab,” said DGP Yadav. “The Cybercrime Cell has proactively frozen or marked funds with a 17% success rate in 2024, preventing over Rs 57 crore from falling into the hands of fraudsters.”
Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Punjab’s Cybercrime Division, V Neeraja, highlighted the department’s progress in tackling cybercrime, raising public awareness, and boosting police capabilities. Since the establishment of 28 new Cyber Police Stations in March 2024, 205 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered and investigated, further enhancing the state’s ability to combat digital threats.
What is the Cyber Mittar Chatbot?
The Cyber Mittar Chatbot, a new initiative by Punjab Police’s Cybercrime Division, can be accessed through the Punjab Police cybercrime portal at https://cybercrime.punjabpolice.gov.in. It provides instant information on cybercrime prevention and reporting.
Available 24/7, the chatbot offers a secure, non-judgmental space for citizens to report cybercrimes or seek help. It supports multiple languages, including Punjabi, breaking down communication barriers and making it more accessible to the public. In an effort to further enhance convenience, the chatbot will soon be integrated with WhatsApp within the next 15 days.
This enhanced accessibility is expected to significantly improve reporting efficiency and aid in the fight against cybercrime across the state.
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