What Actions is the Government Taking Against Cyber Fraud?
Synopsis
In a significant move to tackle cyber fraud, the Indian government has disconnected a staggering 39.43 lakh mobile connections, blacklisted 2.27 lakh handsets, and banned 1.31 lakh SMS templates. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance digital security and protect citizens from financial scams.
Key Takeaways
39.43 lakh mobile connections disconnected.
2.27 lakh handsets blacklisted.
1.31 lakh SMS templates banned.
Initiatives aim to combat cyber-crimes .
Protection against financial fraud .
New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) - On Thursday, the government disclosed that a total of 39.43 lakh mobile connections have been terminated, 2.27 lakh mobile devices have been blacklisted, and 1.31 lakh SMS templates have also faced blacklisting across the nation as part of efforts to combat cyber-crimes and financial frauds.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) to prevent the exploitation of telecom resources for cyber-criminal activities and financial scams, as stated by Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications, in a written response to queries in the Rajya Sabha.
He also highlighted that the DoT’s Sanchar Saathi initiative is available via a web portal and mobile application.
The Chakshu feature of Sanchar Saathi allows citizens to report suspected fraudulent communications across various categories.
This initiative empowers vigilant citizens to report communications where fraud was attempted, even if it was not executed.
As per the minister’s statement, cases of actual financial losses due to fraud are managed by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is tasked with addressing cyber-crime according to the business allocation rules.
“Typically, action is taken after providing the mobile user with an opportunity for re-verification. The outcomes of such analyses are reflected on the Sanchar Saathi portal’s dashboard. Based on 7.7 lakh inputs from citizens, 39.43 lakh mobile connections have been disconnected, 2.27 lakh mobile devices blacklisted, and 1.31 lakh SMS templates blacklisted,” the minister stated.
Moreover, he mentioned that stakeholders take necessary actions based on information shared on the DIP, analyzing associated accounts or profiles in their domains.
Reportedly, the total amount of fraud prevented through the Fraud Reporting Interface (FRI) exceeds Rs 1,000 crore, based on transaction declines and alerts/notifications sent to citizens.
“Additionally, WhatsApp has removed 28 lakh profiles/accounts linked to shared mobile numbers,” he added.
Point of View
I commend the government's proactive measures to combat cyber fraud. The disconnecting of mobile connections and blacklisting of devices demonstrates a serious commitment to safeguarding citizens from financial crimes. This initiative not only protects individuals but also reinforces the integrity of our telecommunications system.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Digital Intelligence Platform?
The Digital Intelligence Platform aims to prevent the misuse of telecom resources in cyber-crimes and financial frauds.
How can citizens report suspected fraud?
Citizens can report suspected fraud communications through the Chakshu facility of the Sanchar Saathi initiative, available on a web portal and mobile app.
What actions are taken against fraudulent activities?
Fraudulent activities are analyzed, and actions are taken based on inputs from citizens, which may include disconnection of services or blacklisting devices.
