New Delhi: As Dussehra celebrations symbolise the victory of good over evil, people are being urged to recognise and guard against a modern-day Ravana operating in the digital world. Unlike the ten-headed effigy burned during the festival, this threat takes different identities to deceive people and steal their hard-earned money.
Cybercriminals frequently pose as bank officials, police officers, government investigators or representatives of other institutions to gain people’s trust and obtain confidential information. Highlighting these risks, Ramleela actors have appealed to the public to remain alert and follow basic cybersecurity precautions.
Shahbaz Khan Warns Against Sharing OTPs
Actor Shahbaz Khan, who portrays Ravana in Ramleela, cautioned people against sharing one-time passwords (OTPs) or other personal information with strangers. He said fraudsters often use fear, tempting offers or claims of urgency to persuade victims to disclose confidential details.
Even a moment of carelessness can result in financial losses. Khan advised people not to trust suspicious calls, messages or offers without verification. Banking details, passwords and other sensitive information should never be shared with unknown individuals.
He also urged people to independently verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent a bank, the police or a government department before responding to requests for information.
How Can People Recognise a Digital Arrest Scam?
Actor Vindu Singh, who plays Lord Hanuman in Ramleela, warned people about scams involving so-called “digital arrests.” Fraudsters may contact victims through video calls, display police uniforms or fake identification cards, and claim to represent an investigative agency.
They may falsely allege that the victim is involved in a criminal case or that their bank account has been used for illegal activities. Victims are then threatened with arrest and pressured to remain at home, avoid contacting others or transfer money in the name of an investigation.
Singh stressed that “digital arrest” is not a recognised legal procedure. Someone cannot legally arrest a person merely by appearing as an official on a video call. People facing such threats should remain calm, avoid transferring money and independently contact the relevant authorities to verify the claims.
Report Cyber Fraud Without Delay
Awareness and timely action are essential to tackling online fraud. Anyone who experiences financial cybercrime should immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930. Complaints can also be filed through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
People should preserve evidence such as suspicious phone numbers, messages, payment records and other relevant details. They should avoid transferring money at the request of unknown callers or disclosing confidential information under pressure.
Dussehra’s Message Extends to the Digital World
The significance of Dussehra goes beyond the burning of Ravana’s effigy. In an increasingly digital society, recognising new forms of wrongdoing and protecting people from them is equally important.
Just as the Ramayana celebrates the triumph of righteousness, wisdom and courage over evil, awareness and vigilance can help people defend themselves against cybercriminals.
The message from the Ramleela actors is clear: whatever disguise a modern-day Ravana adopts, verify the identity, stay alert and protect your hard-earned money from online fraud.
