HT Correspondent
NAGAON, Nov 25: Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), India’s largest private-sector non-banking financial company and part of Bajaj Finserv, organised a cyber fraud awareness programme titled “Knockout Digital Fraud” in Nagaon to educate citizens about online threats and best practices to safeguard their finances. The initiative aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s 2024 guidelines on fraud risk management for NBFCs, which emphasise early detection, staff accountability and public engagement to strengthen the digital ecosystem.
The programme aimed to alert the public about common scams, including fake social media accounts, fraudulent WhatsApp groups and websites impersonating financial institutions. Participants were briefed on how scammers attempt to exploit unsuspecting digital users by falsely claiming affiliation with reputable organisations.
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Addressing the audience, Bhardwaz Chetry, SI, Assam Police, highlighted the importance of vigilance against contemporary frauds such as digital arrest scams, job fraud, sextortion, OTP fraud, WhatsApp hacking and fraudulent investment schemes. He urged citizens to safeguard sensitive information, avoid clicking on suspicious links and download only verified apps from trusted sources like Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Chetry also emphasised the importance of acting promptly in case of cyber fraud. Victims are advised to report incidents during the “Golden Hour” by calling 1930, registering complaints via the NCRP portal or visiting local police stations to ensure swift action.
Dr Mriganka Saikia, Principal of Nagaon GNDG Commerce College, highlighted the rising prevalence of cybercrime globally and locally. She noted that fraudsters are targeting both illiterate and highly educated individuals, using tactics such as sharing OTPs, clicking on unverified links and offering fake investment opportunities. Dr Saikia praised Bajaj Finance’s initiative, stating that awareness is the key to preventing financial loss and protecting the public from online scams.
The “Knockout Digital Fraud” initiative reflects a growing effort by financial institutions and law enforcement agencies to educate the public about cyber threats, reinforcing the importance of cautious digital behaviour in an increasingly online world.
