Bhopal: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav today participated in the ‘Run for Cyber Awareness’ organized by the Madhya Pradesh Police to raise awareness about cybersecurity and tackle the growing menace of cybercrime. The event was flagged off at Atal Path in Bhopal, with CM Yadav expressing strong support for the initiative, emphasizing that the fight against cybercrime is not just the responsibility of law enforcement but of society as a whole.
A Call for Collective Action Against Cybercrime
While addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that in the digital age, both technology and laws play vital roles, but the greatest weapon against cybercrimes is public awareness. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and responsible while navigating the digital landscape, as cybercrime is an ever-growing threat affecting all sections of society.
“When citizens are aware, the nation becomes safer,” CM Yadav said, highlighting that as the country rapidly strengthens its digital infrastructure, new challenges and risks are emerging in parallel. From new forms of online fraud to data breaches and identity theft, the growing cybercrime landscape calls for urgent action and constant vigilance.
The Rising Threat of Cybercrime
Dr. Yadav elaborated on the increasing number of cybercrimes such as online fraud, data breaches, phishing attacks, fake profiles, and online shopping scams. He emphasized that while technology connects us, it also provides criminals with new tools to exploit the public. The ‘Run for Cyber Awareness’ aims to bring attention to the need for digital safety and cyber hygiene in this digital era.
He further pointed out that the cybercrime landscape includes a variety of tactics used by criminals to deceive individuals, including fraudulent calls from fake police officers, bank managers, or government officials. This growing threat not only involves financial loss but also impacts a person’s trust, identity, and reputation.
PM Modi’s Digital Safety Mantra: Stop, Think, and Then Act
Drawing attention to the importance of staying cautious in the digital world, CM Yadav quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mantra for online safety: “Stop, Think, and Then Act.” This approach, he said, should be the foundation of digital safety — urging citizens to pause when faced with unsolicited calls, suspicious links, or requests for personal information, think critically about the situation, and only act after confirming the authenticity of the request.
CM Yadav emphasized that this principle serves as the “constitution of the digital era” and represents the foundation of safe online practices.
Police Chief Highlights Growing Cybercrime Threat
In his address, Police Chief Kailash Makwana highlighted the alarming rise of cybercrime both in India and globally. He cautioned that cybercrime is rapidly becoming the fastest-growing form of criminal activity, with more cases expected to emerge in the coming years. Beyond financial loss, cybercrime also involves theft of personal identity, intellectual property, and research work.
Makwana noted that the digital world is not just about securing money; it also involves protecting our reputation, privacy, and ideas. Intellectual property theft through digital means, including the unauthorized use of research, designs, or images, is a form of cybercrime that is increasingly prevalent.
A Commitment to Digital Security
The ‘Run for Cyber Awareness’ was not just about physical participation but about raising awareness of how individuals can secure their digital identities. Police Chief Makwana encouraged participants to be mindful of their passwords, One-Time Passwords (OTPs), and other personal details, urging them to avoid sharing sensitive information. He also emphasized the need for the citizens to make digital security an integral part of their everyday life.
Madhya Pradesh Police, as part of its ongoing campaign, is actively reaching out to citizens through schools, colleges, and local communities, ensuring that everyone understands how to safeguard themselves against cybercrimes. Makwana called for citizens to not only remain aware themselves but also educate others in their communities, helping to create a nation-wide movement to tackle cybercrime.
Key Participants and the Run’s Route
The Run for Cyber Awareness event saw participation from local citizens, police officers, and cyber security experts, who all joined forces to spread the message of cybersecurity. CM Yadav flagged off the run from the Platinum Plaza near Atal Path, which passed through major locations, including Apex Bank Tiraha, and culminated at the T.T. Nagar Stadium.
Senior leaders present at the event included MLA Bhagwandas Sabnani and Police Chief Kailash Makwana, along with other senior police officials. The event also featured a ceremonial welcome for CM Yadav, with the police band playing a musical salute.
Helpline for Cybercrimes: Call 1930
In his concluding remarks, CM Yadav urged citizens to immediately report any cybercrime cases or suspicious activities through the dedicated helpline number 1930, ensuring swift action against fraudsters and cybercriminals.
This event marked a significant step in raising public awareness about cybersecurity and promoting a culture of responsible digital usage across Madhya Pradesh.
