Haryana Police Launches Comprehensive Measures to Combat Cybercrime
Chandigarh , September 26, 2023
In an effort to combat the rising tide of cybercrimes, Haryana Police has unveiled a series of comprehensive measures aimed at bolstering cybersecurity.
The initiatives come in response to growing concerns about the surge in digital fraud, with the police force taking proactive steps to safeguard the interests of the state’s residents.
“One of the standout measures is the introduction of an enhanced feature within the cybercrime.gov.in, the central government cybercrime reporting portal. This new addition displays the number of times an account has been linked to fraudulent transactions, providing law enforcement agencies with crucial insights into potentially compromised accounts. We request financial institutions to take immediate action in blocking such accounts.” Said Haryana DGP Shatrujeet Kapur while presiding a high level meeting with the official of a major bank at police headquarter, Panchkula.
“There is a substantial flow of funds to foreign destinations like Dubai and the UAE through accounts of major banks. To counter this, we recommend the implementation of stringent checks to monitor and scrutinize international transactions, especially those conducted through accounts and disrupt the channels often exploited by cybercriminal.” The DGP further said.
In the digital age, even seemingly minor vulnerabilities can be exploited by cybercriminals. One such concern is the lax verification of IFSC codes for NEFT/RTGS transactions by banks. Fraudsters have been known to exploit this loophole by providing seemingly legitimate IFSC codes. “We emphasize the need for financial institutions to tighten their verification protocols, ensuring that every IFSC code provided during transactions is thoroughly validated,” The DGP said.
To further enhance the security of financial transactions, the police is advocating sharing of geographical coordinates when fraudsters make withdrawals. The ability to pinpoint the location of these transactions will aid law enforcement agencies in tracking down cybercriminals.
One common issue in dealing with cybercrimes is the lack of transparency in categorizing transactions with merchants. Banks often categorize such transactions as ‘other,’ failing to provide detailed information about the merchant. “We urge financial institutions to provide comprehensive details about merchant transactions. Transparency in this regard will prove invaluable in the investigative process.” Said the DGP
Delays in addressing fraudulent credit card transactions have been a recurrent concern. The police stressed the importance of expediting response time. This shift in approach could significantly impact the recovery of stolen funds and the apprehension of cybercriminals.
Team 1930, a specialized cybercrime response unit, plays a pivotal role in tackling cybercrimes. The Haryana Police called for increased cooperation between banks and Team 1930 by sharing vital information, including working hours, shift details of banks’ nodal officers. Such collaboration will facilitate faster responses to cybercrimes and a more efficient investigative process. “Haryana Police recommended assigning independent nodal officer by banks to oversee live cases so that fund transfers to criminals’ accounts may be stopped before they draw it in cash or consume it with some purchase.” Said a senior officer present in the meeting.
“Nodal officers serve as the primary point of contact between financial institutions and law enforcement agencies in cybercrime investigations. We urge nodal officers to maintain open lines of communication, responding promptly to follow-up calls, and ensuring that cybercrimes are addressed without delay.” Said ADGP, Cyber, Haryana, OP Singh.
Recognizing the urgency of cybercrime cases, the police emphasized the need for nodal officers to be available round the clock, including outside of office hours and on their days off. This commitment to accessibility is essential to ensure timely responses to cybercrimes.
“Our proactive approach to combat cybercrimes underscores the increasing importance of cybersecurity in our interconnected world. By implementing these comprehensive measures and recommendations, the we aim to not only protect the interests of the citizens but also to create a safer digital environment for all.” Said DGP Kapur in his concluding remark.
“As the battle against cybercriminals intensifies, these initiatives represent a significant step forward in ensuring the security and wellbeing of Haryana’s residents in the digital age.” He further added.
