Government unveils 'Chakshu' and 'DIP' portal to combat online fraud menace

The government has launched two new platforms, 'Chakshu' and 'DIP,' in its ongoing battle against online fraud. The Chakshu portal, unveiled as part of the Sanchar Sathi initiative, enables users to report suspicious activities like fraudulent calls, lottery scams, and unauthorized use of phone numbers by businesses.

According to Union Minister of IT and Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Department of Telecom Services has prevented citizens from losing approximately ₹1000 crore over the past nine months through digital interventions. Additionally, fraudulent transactions totalling ₹1008 crore have been frozen in associated bank accounts.

Chakshu, Minister Vaishnaw explained, focuses on reporting suspected fraud instances and allows subscribers to report leaked mobile numbers caused by business activities. Over the past nine months, the platform has led to the disconnection of 1 crore mobile numbers involved in malicious activities.

How to use Chakshu?

To put down a complaint access the 'Sanchar Saathi' portal at sancharsaathi.gov.in, choose 'Chakshu' from 'Citizen Centric Services,' review terms, and continue. Complete the form detailing suspected fraud, input personal information, verify with OTP, and submit the complaint.

Alongside Chakshu, the Department of Telecom has introduced the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP). DIP facilitates information exchange between law enforcement agencies, banks, and financial institutions to effectively combat fraud.

Vaishnaw emphasized that the introduction of Chakshu and DIP will significantly enhance the detection and prevention of cyber frauds. Investigations will be conducted promptly upon reports, leading to necessary actions.

Furthermore, the Ministry is collaborating with financial institutions, including the RBI, to recover fraudulently transferred funds and freeze associated accounts. Approximately 17 lakh mobile numbers used solely for fraudulent activities have been blocked in the past nine months.

Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan commended the efforts of the Department of Telecom in countering cybersecurity threats, with many more projects underway to address emerging frauds.

Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal emphasized that these new platforms are critical steps in safeguarding citizens' digital assets, ensuring a robust defence against fraudulent activities and misuse of communication systems.

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