Cybersecurity Push: Law Enforcement Blocks 7.81 Lakh Fraudulent SIMs and Thousands of IMEIs

Lok Sabha was informed that law enforcement agencies have blocked more than 7.81 lakh SIM cards associated with digital frauds. Furthermore, police authorities have reported that the government has disabled 2,08,469 IMEIs. A IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a distinctive number that is assigned to each mobile device.The prevention of fraudulent activities is facilitated by the suppression of these numbers.  

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), which is under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has additionally recognized and blocked over 3,962 Skype IDs and 83,668 WhatsApp accounts that are used for fraudulent activities.The Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System was created to address financial cybercrimes, thereby facilitating the immediate reporting of financial frauds and preventing the theft of funds. So far, 13.36 lakh complaints have led to Rs 4,386 crore in savings.  

A national cybercrime reporting portal has been established as part of its efforts.This portal enables the public to submit a variety of digital crimes, with a particular emphasis on offenses against women and children.The portal guarantees that the law enforcement agencies of the relevant state and Union Territory are responsible for the conversion of reported offenses into FIRs.  

Furthermore, a toll-free cybercrime helpline (1930) has been made to facilitate the filing of complaints by citizens.These endeavors are indicative of the government's proactive strategies to safeguard citizens from digital deception and improve cybersecurity.

This article is based on information from Business Standard