WhatsApp and DoT Launch Initiative to Stop Telecom-Based Cyber Scams

Cybercriminals continue to pose a major challenge to the government, with incidents of financial fraud rising despite various preventive measures. These crimes, often carried out through social media platforms and mobile phones, have prompted the government to take a more direct approach. To combat online fraud and spam, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has now partnered with WhatsApp under a security campaign called ‘Ghotle Se Bachao’ (Beware of Scams).

How Will This Initiative Work?

The government, through this campaign, will educate citizens on how to identify suspicious messages and where to report them. WhatsApp will play a crucial role in taking action against those who misuse telecommunication tools such as mobile phones and social media platforms for fraudulent activities. To strengthen its efforts, the DoT’s Digital Intelligence Platform—which shares confidential data with over 550 organizations, including banks and law enforcement agencies—will provide critical information to WhatsApp to help track and curb fraudulent activities.

Rising Cybercrime and Government’s Efforts

In recent years, online scams and cybercrimes have surged, with lakhs of people falling victim to digital fraud, resulting in losses worth crores of rupees. The situation has become even more alarming with cybercriminals exploiting platforms like WhatsApp through video calls, voice messages, and chats.

One of the most shocking recent cases involved an 86-year-old woman from Mumbai who was cheated out of Rs 20.25 crore. Such incidents highlight the urgent need for stronger measures against cyber fraud. With this new government-WhatsApp collaboration, authorities aim to curb digital crimes more effectively, ensuring better protection for citizens against financial fraud and online scams.