Navi Mumbai Police Launch WhatsApp Channel and Helpline to Combat Rising Cyber Fraud

Navi Mumbai, August 16 - In response to a surge in cyber frauds that are draining ₹1 crore daily from residents, the Navi Mumbai Police have introduced a new WhatsApp channel and a dedicated helpline to bolster public awareness and support against online scams. The initiatives, launched by Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Vashi, aim to provide residents with essential information and direct assistance regarding cyber crimes.

New Initiatives to Tackle Cyber Crime

The newly launched WhatsApp channel, named 'Navi Mumbai Police,' will feature short videos and updates on the methods used by scammers and preventative measures that can be taken. Alongside the channel, a helpline number, 8828112112, has been established to offer immediate guidance and support to those affected by or concerned about cyber fraud.

Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe highlighted the alarming disparity in financial losses between cyber frauds and traditional crimes. "While Navi Mumbai has recorded around 1,100 cases of dacoity, theft, and robbery this year, resulting in a combined financial loss of ₹13.67 crore, cyber frauds, though fewer in number at 249 cases, have caused a staggering loss of nearly ₹168 crore," he stated. This data underscores the urgent need for enhanced public awareness and preventive measures.

Expanding Public Awareness and Support

The WhatsApp channel is designed as an educational tool to inform the public about the evolving nature of cyber frauds. By providing practical advice and sharing real-time updates, the channel aims to increase awareness and reduce the likelihood of individuals falling victim to these scams.

The helpline, which will be staffed by five trained professionals, is set up to assist citizens not only with cyber fraud issues but also with concerns related to narcotics, women's safety, and other citizen services. The number 8828112112 was chosen to be easy to remember, featuring the digits '112' at the end to align with emergency services.

Looking Ahead

This initiative, described as a pilot project by DGP Shukla, represents a significant step forward in combating cyber crime in Navi Mumbai. The police plan to evaluate the success of these efforts and potentially expand the program to other regions if the response proves positive.

Bharambe emphasized that public education is key to addressing the issue. “Cyber fraud cases are rising primarily due to a lack of awareness. By equipping individuals with knowledge, we aim to prevent these incidents and assist those who might already be affected,” he explained. The launch of the WhatsApp channel and helpline marks a proactive approach in the fight against cyber crime, aiming to safeguard residents and enhance community resilience against fraud.

As the initiative rolls out, the Navi Mumbai Police are hopeful that these resources will empower citizens to protect themselves and contribute to a significant reduction in cyber fraud incidents.