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| Fraudsters On Prowl | | | Recently Cyber Crime Wing of Jammu and Kashmir Police sounded an alarm by informing the people that fraudsters have devised a new method to dupe unsuspecting residents of Jammu city by circulating a fake mobile application in the name of the Jal Shakti Department, targeting citizens who usually clear their annual water bills before March 31 each year.
According to the media reports several people have already fallen victim to the scam, losing money and sensitive personal data after installing a malicious mobile application titled “JalShakti.apk,” which is being widely shared through WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
An advisory has been issued warning citizens not to download or install any application received through private messaging platforms claiming to be linked with the Jal Shakti Department.
It’s not for the first time that cyber fraudsters have targeted the common people. They have been doing it again and again. They come up with new ideas to con the people and deprive them of their hard-earned money.
Each time awareness spreads about one tactic, fraudsters devise another. The recurring pattern highlights a troubling reality: cybercrime is evolving faster than public awareness. Citizens must understand a basic rule of digital safety—no government department shares official applications through private messaging platforms. Authentic apps are hosted only on verified app stores, and official communications are made through designated websites or public notices. Blindly downloading files received on WhatsApp or Telegram is an invitation to trouble. However, awareness cannot remain limited to advisories issued after damage has been done. What is required is a sustained and structured digital literacy campaign. Schools, colleges, resident welfare associations, and local bodies should be engaged to educate people about identifying suspicious links, verifying sources, and reporting cyber incidents promptly. Public service messages on television, radio, and social media can amplify this effort.
At the same time, stronger technological and legal safeguards are essential. Swift tracing of digital footprints, coordination with telecom and banking institutions, and exemplary punishment for offenders can act as deterrents. The role of financial institutions is equally critical; they must enhance transaction alerts and implement robust verification systems to minimize losses. |
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