Digital literacy is incomplete without robust digital defense. In today's interconnected environment — spanning UPI payments, cloud services, AI platforms and online portals — understanding how to protect your personal and organizational digital assets is critical. This page provides educational fundamentals on cyber hygiene, actionable defense measures, and an immediate emergency response blueprint if your account, device or money is ever compromised. If you are a victim of financial fraud, act within the "golden hour" — reporting within the first hours gives the best chance to freeze the attacker's account before the money is withdrawn.
Cybercriminals exploit either software vulnerabilities or human psychology. Know the common patterns:
Deceptive messages, fake courier-tracking links and fraudulent SMS disguised as bank KYC or electricity-bill updates.
Fake video calls impersonating CBI, Police or Customs officers threatening legal action to extort money. No agency ever arrests you over a video call.
Trojan apps shared via WhatsApp or third-party downloads that hijack your SMS and OTP permissions.
Telegram/WhatsApp groups promising unrealistic daily stock, rating or part-time-job returns.
Callers posing as officials asking for your OTP, PIN, or to approve a "collect request" to receive money.
Stolen credentials used to impersonate you or compromise personal and enterprise databases.
Financial fraud: immediately call your bank's customer care to freeze your debit/credit card, net-banking profile and UPI access — then call 1930.
Device hacking / ransomware: disconnect from Wi-Fi, Ethernet and mobile data at once to stop data from being stolen.
Account takeover: reset your password from a secure second device; if locked out, start account recovery and warn your contacts (via another channel) not to send money to the attacker.
Do not delete chats, reset the phone or alter records. Gather:
Dial 1930 (24×7) for online financial fraud. Within the golden hour, nodal officers can freeze the attacker's destination account.
Call 1930File an e-complaint under "Report Financial Fraud" or "Report Other Cyber Crimes" to generate an official acknowledgment number.
cybercrime.gov.inUse the Maharashtra Cyber portal for state-level reporting and follow-up, or visit your nearest cyber police station.
mhcyber.gov.inFor physical follow-up or localized intervention within the Pune jurisdiction.
Cyber Police Station, Shivajinagar Police Headquarters, Rahul Cinema Lane, Shivajinagar, Pune – 411005
cybercell.pnr@mahapolice.gov.in
Cyber Police Station, Pune Rural, Chavan Nagar, Pashan Road, Pune – 411008
Crime Branch, Commissioner of Police Office, Premlok Park, Chinchwad, Pune – 411033
Students and staff facing a cyber issue can also reach out to our cell:
Sarhad Law School — IT / Cyber Awareness Cell +91 84218 10486 sarhadlawschool@gmail.com
This page is for awareness and guidance only and is not a substitute for professional or legal advice. Helpline numbers and addresses are those published by the Government of India / Maharashtra Police and may change — always verify on cybercrime.gov.in.