Mangan, April 7: In an effort to promote cyber safety and strengthen public awareness about digital security, the Mangan Police Station on Monday launched a month-long Cyber Crime Awareness Campaign in Dzongu, North Sikkim. The initiative aims to educate government employees, students, and members of the public about emerging cyber threats, safe online practices, and the importance of reporting cyber crimes promptly.
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| Officials of Mangan Police Station, bank representatives, and participants pose for a group photo during the launch of a cyber crime awareness campaign at BAC Passingdang in Dzongu, North Sikkim.(Image: BDO Dzongu) |
The awareness programme was inaugurated at the Block Administrative Centre (BAC), Passingdang, by Station House Officer (SHO) Prashant Rai, who highlighted the rapid increase in cyber-related offences and the need for greater public vigilance in the digital age.
Addressing participants, SHO Rai explained several common forms of cyber fraud that have become increasingly prevalent across the country. These included digital arrest scams, where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement agencies to extort money, online gambling frauds, fake loan application scams, phishing attacks, and other deceptive online activities targeting unsuspecting citizens.
He urged participants to remain cautious while using digital platforms and advised them never to share sensitive personal or banking information with unknown individuals. Stressing the importance of timely reporting, Rai encouraged victims or witnesses of cyber crimes to immediately lodge complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or contact the national cyber crime helpline 1930, enabling authorities to take swift action and increase the chances of recovering lost funds.
The programme also featured an informative session by Narendra Gurung, who briefed participants on official banking customer support and grievance redressal mechanisms. He informed the gathering about the dedicated banking helplines 1600 and 1400, which customers can use to report suspicious transactions, blocked accounts, or cyber fraud-related issues.
Gurung further explained the zero-liability protection policy available to bank customers in cases of cyber fraud. He emphasised that customers who report unauthorised transactions promptly within the prescribed time frame can avail themselves of protection against financial loss, highlighting the importance of immediate reporting in safeguarding their finances.
Officials stated that the campaign will continue throughout the month and extend to remote villages across Dzongu, ensuring that awareness reaches even the most inaccessible communities. Through interactive sessions, demonstrations, and public outreach programmes, the campaign seeks to educate citizens on responsible digital behaviour, secure online transactions, password safety, and protection against evolving cyber threats.
The initiative forms part of the broader vision of the Director General of Police, Sikkim, to build a cyber-aware society capable of identifying and preventing online fraud. With internet usage and digital financial transactions increasing rapidly, the campaign aims to equip citizens with the knowledge and confidence to use digital platforms safely and responsibly.
Officials also acknowledged the contribution of Mahendra Tamang, who facilitated logistical arrangements and helped ensure active public participation in the awareness programme.
The campaign reflects the Sikkim Police's continued commitment to enhancing cyber security awareness and encouraging a culture of responsible digital citizenship across the state.
