Srinagar, May 29: Amid growing incidents of online fraud and digital scams, the Jammu and Kashmir Cyber Crime Department has issued a public advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant against cyber criminals using fake calls, phishing links, OTP fraud and suspicious online requests to target unsuspecting users.
The advisory comes as cyber-related complaints continue to emerge across the region, with fraudsters increasingly employing deceptive digital tactics to gain unauthorized access to personal information, financial details and social media accounts.
Officials said members of the public should avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links, refrain from sharing one-time passwords (OTPs), and carefully verify unfamiliar numbers or online requests before responding.
The Cyber Crime Department also advised users to strengthen the security of messaging applications, particularly WhatsApp, by enabling Two-Step Verification as an additional safeguard against unauthorized account access and impersonation attempts.
Officials warned that scammers often pose as bank representatives, government officials, customer care agents or acquaintances to deceive victims into sharing confidential details or transferring money.
The department stressed that early reporting remains critical in cyber fraud cases, particularly in incidents involving financial transactions, as prompt intervention may improve chances of blocking suspicious transfers and facilitating recovery.
Citizens have been urged to immediately report cyber fraud cases to the police or through the National Cyber Crime Portal and seek assistance through the dedicated cyber helpline number 1930.
The advisory forms part of ongoing awareness efforts by the Cyber Crime Department aimed at improving digital safety and encouraging responsible online behavior amid rising dependence on internet-based services and communication platforms. [KNT]
