Government Launches Chakshu Initiative to Curb Cyber Frauds

The Ministry of Communications, Railways, Electronics and Information Technology has launched a new initiative called 'Chakshu' on the Sanchar Saathi portal to enable citizens to actively report suspected fraudulent communications and help curb rising cyber crimes.

At the launch event, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasised the government's commitment to protecting citizens from cyber fraud under the Secure India project. The Chakshu initiative makes it easy for anyone receiving suspicious calls, texts or WhatsApp messages regarding financial scams, impersonation or fake offers to report them to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

Some examples of fraudulent communications include fake lottery, job or loan offers, as well as requests involving banking details or KYC updates. Citizens can report whole voice calls, SMSes or WhatsApp messages where the sender's contact information is visible.

The DoT said it would verify reported incidents and take necessary actions such as re-verifying subscribers or filing police complaints. It has also launched a 'Digital Intelligence Platform' to strengthen coordination between stakeholders in curbing telecom misuse for financial crimes.

While Chakshu aims to prevent future frauds, the DoT noted it does not guarantee action against specific senders. It assured confidentiality for vigilante reports and warned of blocking those filing fake complaints. Whether this initiative can empower citizens in the fight against rising online financial scams remains to be seen.

How to report suspected fraud communications via Chakshu?

1. Visit Sanchar Saathi portal at www.sancharsaathi.gov.in

2. Click Citizen Centric Services and then 'Chakshu - Report Suspected Fraud Communication'.

3. Select the medium and category of suspected fraud communication.

4. Provide the details of suspected fraud communication. A screenshot of the communication received may also be uploaded, which is optional.

5. Verify your mobile number with OTP and enter your name.

6. Click the submit button to submit the request.