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Specialized Team to Combat Online Fraud and Cyber Crimes
In an era marked by technological advancements and increasing reliance on digital platforms, the rise of online fraud and cyber crimes has become a pressing concern. To address this alarming trend, the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissioner, Vinay Kumar Choubey, has taken a proactive approach by forming a dedicated team of 'cyber experts known as the 'Special 108.'
The Need for Specialized Cyber Experts
Each year, a substantial number of crimes reported at police stations fall under the purview of the IT Act, resulting in significant financial losses for individuals. Cyber thieves exploit online channels to siphon off billions of rupees, necessitating swift and effective measures to combat this menace. The ‘Special 108’ team has been created to promptly respond to complaints of financial losses from bank accounts reported at police stations. By collaborating with the respective banks, the team aims to take immediate action and mitigate the impact of cyber crimes on individuals and businesses.
Leveraging Technology to Counter Cyber Threats
As technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), continues to advance, cyber thieves also use these tools for their nefarious activities. Recent incidents reported under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate have seen individuals falling victim to fraud schemes ranging from a few thousand rupees to a staggering 88 lakhs through online transactions. This highlights the urgent need for specialised expertise to effectively combat cyber crimes in the region.
Strengthening the Cyber Crime Cell
The Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate recognised the gravity of the situation and established a dedicated Cyber Crime Cell in 2018. Led by the renowned cyber expert Police Inspector Dr Sanjay Tungar, the department comprises four PSI/Assistant Inspector rank officers and a team of 17 constables. Their primary responsibility is investigating cyber crimes reported across the 18 police stations under the Commissionerate’s jurisdiction. Working closely with local police units, the Cyber Crime Cell strives to apprehend and bring cyber criminals to justice.
Addressing Disparity and Expanding Resources
Despite the commendable efforts of the Cyber Crime Cell, a significant disparity exists between the growing number of registered cyber crimes and the limited number of officers assigned to combat this menace. In recognition of this disparity and the need for enhanced resources, Police Commissioner Vinay Kumar Choubey, an IPS officer and an alumnus of IIT Kanpur, has implemented several progressive measures to benefit the residents of Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Education and Skills: A Cornerstone of Change
Commissioner Choubey has recognised the importance of education and skills in effectively combating cyber crimes. With a focus on fostering a highly skilled and competent police force, he has initiated the establishment of a specialised cyber team at the police station level. To ensure the team’s proficiency, individuals with science degrees and previous experience in the cybercrime cell have been selected to join this initiative. Each police station will assign one PSI/Assistant Inspector and a minimum of two staff members to the team, with some stations even having a larger team comprising multiple employees.
Training and Development: Empowering the Cyber Experts
Specialised training on cybercrime will be provided to the selected 108 cyber experts in line with the commitment to professional growth. This training will equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively investigate and combat cyber crimes. By investing in the continuous development of their expertise, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate aims to enhance its capacity to protect citizens from online fraud and cyber threats.
Conclusion
The formation of the ‘Special 108′ team by the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate signifies a proactive and determined approach to tackle the surge in online fraud and cyber crimes. By leveraging the expertise of selected individuals with science degrees and previous experience in the cybercrime cell, this specialised team aims to prevent cyber crimes and safeguard citizens’ financial interests. As technology evolves, law enforcement agencies must adapt and stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
