Govt with Meta launches ‘Scam Se Bacho’ to combat cyber fraud nationwide

New Delhi: In collaboration with key Indian ministries, Meta has launched the “Scam Se Bacho” campaign, a national initiative to enhance digital safety and curb the growing menace of online scams and cyber frauds. The campaign was inaugurated today in New Delhi, with the participation of Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of Information and Broadcasting, and other key officials.

Government’s unified response to cybersecurity shallenges

The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), represents a unified government approach to combating cyber threats. It aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital safety for its 900 million internet users.

Sanjay Jaju highlights urgency of cybersecurity in India

During the event, Sanjay Jaju emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating that the rise in cyber fraud—1.1 million cases reported in 2023 alone—necessitates immediate action. He remarked, “This campaign is not just an awareness drive but a national movement aimed at empowering citizens with the knowledge to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world.”

Empowering citizens through ‘Scam Se Bacho’

The “Scam Se Bacho” initiative seeks to foster a culture of digital vigilance. By leveraging Meta’s global expertise, the campaign aims to equip Indian citizens with practical tools and knowledge to safeguard against cyber threats. Jaju further added, “As India leads in digital growth, our progress must be matched by robust digital security.”

Digital India and the cybersecurity imperative

India’s rapid digital expansion, particularly under the Digital India initiative and its leadership in UPI transactions, has also seen a surge in cybercrime. The campaign underscores the need for strong preventive measures and digital literacy, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for enhanced cybersecurity measures.