The awareness drive in Dehradun is part of Bajaj Finance’s 100-city cyber security programme to inform citizens about different types of cyber threats, and ways to safeguard one’s finances against fraudsters
Dehradun: Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL)., India’s largest Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) in the private sector, and part of Bajaj Finserv, today held a cyber fraud awareness programme in Dehradun- Knockout Digital Fraud – to inform digital users about different types of threats, and best practices to safeguard finances.
The Knockout Digital Fraud programme aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s 2024 guidelines on Fraud Risk management for NBFCs, which emphasises early detection, staff accountability, and public engagement to make the digital ecosystem safer for everyone.
The programme is focused on drawing citizens’ attention to common financial frauds committed by scammers including fake social media accounts, WhatsApp groups and websites that mimic financial companies, falsely claiming affiliation and impersonating their employees.
Addressing the audience during Bajaj Finance’s “Knockout Digital Fraud” awareness initiative, Shri Ankush Mishra, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Cyber Crime, Dehradun highlighted the alarming rise in cyber fraud across Uttarakhand. “Over the past year, Uttarakhand has witnessed over 26,000 reported cases of cyber fraud, resulting in financial losses amounting to ₹167 crores. Disturbingly, three new cases have been reported just today.”
He emphasized the importance of public awareness, saying, “Any initiative that raises awareness about cyber fraud is not only welcome but essential in helping citizens protect themselves.”
Addressing the audience, Shri Mishra posed a critical question: “How many of us know the national cyber fraud helpline number? It’s a number that should be saved on every phone. Don’t wait until you become a victim—save 1930 on speed dial today. In case of fraud, you can also dial 100 or 112 for immediate assistance.”
During the session, Shri Mishra shared practical tips and real-life examples to educate attendees on various types of digital fraud, including UPI scams, card frauds, OTP-based deception, and more. He also stressed the importance of securing Aadhaar biometrics to prevent identity theft.
Speaking at the same initiative, Shri Brijbhushan Juyal, former DSP, Dehradun advised citizens to stay safe on social and digital platforms. He cautioned, “Fraudsters often exploit low awareness, luring individuals with false promises of disproportionate appreciation of wealth. I urge citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity to the nearest Police Station, and avoid interacting with unknown profiles online. Stay alert, stay safe.”
Speaking on the occasion, a spokesperson from BFL, said, “The financial safety of our consumers is paramount to us. We are constantly issuing online and offline advisories, on social media platforms, as well as through on-ground interactions with citizens, encouraging everyone to be cyber safe.”
Knockout Digital Fraud offers the cyber community valuable safety tips on safeguarding personal and sensitive information. This includes refraining from sharing OTPs, PINs, clicking on suspicious emails, SMSs, links, QR codes and downloading applications from unknown sources. It includes a series of interactive workshops, digital awareness drives, and community outreach programs across major cities and towns.
