Ludhiana, August 20 ( Prof. Avtar Singh ):-An awareness programme under RBI E-Baat was organised at Village Mattewara, Ludhiana, to educate the public about the growing threat of cyber fraud and digital financial frauds. More than 100 people participated enthusiastically in the programme.
The programme was addressed by Shri Arun Jindal and Shri Manish Kumar, representatives of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Shri Gurdeep Singh Kang, Lead District Manager (LDM), Ludhiana, along with the CFL Team, also participated in the programme.
During the session, participants were sensitised about various types of cyber frauds, including online financial frauds, social media-related frauds and the emerging threat of “Digital Arrest” scams. The participants were explained how fraudsters impersonate police officials, government authorities or other agencies and create fear and pressure to extract money or confidential information.
The officials also highlighted the risks associated with mule accounts. Participants were advised not to allow anyone to use their bank account for receiving or transferring funds on behalf of others, even in return for a commission. It was explained that allowing an account to be misused for fraudulent transactions can result in serious financial and legal consequences. People were urged to keep their banking credentials, debit cards, PINs and account access strictly under their own control.
Information regarding deposit insurance under DICGC (Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation) was also shared with the participants. They were informed about the importance of keeping deposits with regulated banks and the protection available to eligible bank deposits under the DICGC framework, subject to applicable rules and limits.
The officials advised participants to remain vigilant while using digital banking services, social media platforms and mobile applications. They were specifically advised not to click on unknown or suspicious links and never to share OTP, PIN, CVV, passwords or other confidential banking information with anyone.
The procedure to be followed in case of cyber fraud was also explained. Participants were informed about the National Cyber Crime Helpline Number 1930 for promptly reporting cyber financial frauds. Information regarding the RBI Complaint Management System (CMS) Portal was also shared, enabling people to lodge complaints related to banking services and RBI-regulated entities.
An interactive Question-and-Answer session was conducted, wherein villagers actively participated, raised their queries and shared their experiences relating to cyber fraud. The active participation of the villagers made the programme highly interactive and informative. Prizes were also distributed among participants at the conclusion of the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gurdeep Singh Kang, LDM Ludhiana, emphasised the importance of creating awareness about cyber security, particularly with the increasing use of digital banking and online services. He stated that awareness and vigilance are the first line of defence against cyber fraud and urged the public to remain cautious and follow safe digital banking practices.
The RBI E-Baat awareness programme aimed to empower the public with knowledge and practical precautions so that they can identify fraudulent activities, avoid misuse of their bank accounts as mule accounts, protect their financial information and take immediate action in case of any cyber fraud.
The programme concluded with the message: “Stay Alert, Stay Safe — Never Share Your OTP or Confidential Banking Details and Never Allow Your Bank Account to Be Used by Others.”