In an important measure to combat cyber fraud, the government has launched the Chakshu portal as part of the Sanchar Sathi initiative. The portal aims to empower subscribers to report suspected fraud calls and messages, as well as instances of leaked phone numbers by businesses. The new platforms, Chakshu and Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), will be integrated with the Sanchar Saathi portal, enabling prompt sharing of intelligence among various stakeholders.
The effectiveness of digital measures in combating fraud and crime was highlighted by Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union IT and Communications Minister. Citizens have saved approximately Rs 1,000 crore and frozen Rs 1,008 crore in bank accounts linked to fraudulent transactions due to these measures over the past nine months. Subscribers can utilize the Chakshu portal to report incidents of leaked mobile numbers, with appropriate action promised against wrongdoers.
What’s Chakshu Portal?
The Chakshu portal, part of the Sanchar Saathi initiative, allows citizens to report suspected fraud communications intended to defraud telecom service users. Examples of fraudulent communication include the use of bank accounts, payment wallets, SIM cards, and impersonating government officials or relatives.
What is ‘DIP’?
The Department of Telecom has also introduced the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), aimed at facilitating the coordination and exchange of information between law enforcement agencies, banks, and other financial institutions to address instances of fraud effectively.
“With the Chakshu and Digital Intelligence Platform, we think the pace at which we were able to detect and prevent cyber frauds will significantly improve,” Vaishnaw said.
According to the minister, an investigation will be carried out on the reported number and action will be taken afterwards.
Vaishnaw said that the ministry is working with financial institutions including RBI to recover money, and prevent and freeze accounts in which money has been transferred fraudulently, adding, “17 lakh mobile numbers have been blocked in the last nine months that were used only once, especially for fraudulent activities.”
As reported by PTI, Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan appreciated the efforts of DoT, which he said has completed several projects to counter cyber-security threats. He said that many more such projects are being developed to deal with new and emerging frauds.
Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal noted that the two new portals are yet another step in dealing with cyber security threats to every citizen’s digital assets. He said the new tools will help curb any kind of fraudulent activity and misuse of the communications system.
How to Use Chakshu Portal to Report Spam Calls, fraud
- Log in to the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ portal at sancharsaathi.gov.in
- Select the ‘Chakshu’ option under ‘Citizen Centric Services.’
- Review the disclaimer and the uses of ‘Chakshu,’ then click ‘continue for reporting.’
- Fill out the form with details such as the medium, category, and timing of the suspected fraud communication.
- Add personal details, verify with OTP, and submit the complaint.
What can you report on Sanchar Saathi Portal?
- Check mobile connections issued in their name and report unnecessary or unauthorized connections.
- Report stolen/lost mobile handsets for blocking and tracing.
- Verify the authenticity of mobile handsets when purchasing new or used devices.
- Report incoming international calls displaying Indian telephone numbers as caller ID.
- Check details of licensed wireline Internet Service Providers.
Also, the Department of Telecom has introduced the DIP, which will make it easier to share information with law enforcement agencies, banks, and other financial institutions to fight fraud. The combined efforts of Chakshu and the Digital Intelligence Platform are expected to enhance the detection and prevention of cyber fraud.
Vaishnaw assured that reported numbers will undergo thorough investigation, with necessary action taken accordingly. The ministry is collaborating with financial institutions, which include the Reserve Bank of India, to recover funds and freeze accounts associated with fraudulent transactions. Additionally, 1.7 million mobile numbers, primarily used for fraudulent activities, have been blocked in the last nine months.
Devusinh Chauhan, the Minister of State for Communications, expressed satisfaction with the Department of Telecom’s successful implementation of several projects to combat cyber-security threats. He mentioned ongoing development of several projects to address emerging forms of fraud.
According to Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, the launch of Chakshu and the Digital Intelligence Platform is a significant step towards safeguarding the digital assets of every citizen. These tools are expected to effectively prevent fraudulent activities and misuse of the communication system.
