Cyber Jagrookta Diwas 2023: Follow these simple tips to avoid becoming a victim of cyber crime

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is celebrating Cyber Jagrookta Diwas today, August 2. The initiative by CERT-In aims to sensitise Internet users on the matter of cybercrime and cyber safety.

CERT-In, the apex agency in the country for cyber security, has shared a few tips on Twitter to caution people against vishing (voice phishing), fraudulent calls and OTP scams. The agency also asked people to report any scams to the official website at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.

“CERT-In is observing 'Cyber Jagrookta Diwas (#CJD)' on 02 August 2023 to create awareness and sensitize Internet users on safeguarding against cyber frauds and cyber crimes,” read the tweet.

CERT-In is observing 'Cyber Jagrookta Diwas (#CJD)' on 02 August 2023 to create awareness and sensitize Internet users on safeguarding against cyber frauds and cyber crimes.#indiancert #cyberswachhtakendra #staysafeonline #cybersecurity #G20India #Meity #CyberJagrooktaDiwas #CSK pic.twitter.com/kC58yXbnDi

— CERT-In (@IndianCERT) August 2, 2023

CERT-In on how vishing happens

CERT-In asked people to be aware of fraudulent calls and vishing. Scammers may contact a person pretending to be from the Income Tax Department, bank, gas agency etc. They can ask a person about their financial details including credit card number, CVV, expiry date and more. They then ask the person to share an OTP sent on their mobile phone for depositing that amount. Once the OTP is shared, money is debited from the person’s bank account.

Safety tips shared by CERT-In

Do not share bank details: The agency advised people to never share their OTP, CVV, PIN and debit/credit card details with anyone. CERT-In has cautioned people against sharing OTP/UPI PIN for receiving money. It has advised people to not share their personal details to update Know-Your-Customer (KYC) process or receive gifts/prize/lottery money.

Call only authorised customer service providers: CERT-In has stated that people should not contact numbers of service providers found randomly on search engines as they could be fake. They should use the customer care numbers available on the authorised website of the company/bank/institute.

Check bank statements regularly: Individuals should keep a track of their bank statements and report any irregularities as soon as possible.

Beware of calls asking about software installation: Do not respond to any calls that ask for personal information/ install remote access apps on the pretext of help.

Block credit/debit cards: In case a person falls prey to a scam, they should change the password of their bank account, freeze the account/block their credit or debit cards and contact the authorities immediately.