Rajasthan Police Warn of Cyber Fraud Linked to Digital Census
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JAIPUR, India — The Rajasthan Police issued a public advisory on Wednesday warning residents against cyber fraud attempts exploiting the ongoing digital census process. The alert comes as authorities detect a surge in phishing campaigns designed to impersonate government officials and extract sensitive personal data from citizens.
Union Government officials and state police forces have identified a coordinated effort by cybercriminals targeting individuals participating in the nationwide data collection drive. The fraudsters are reportedly using fake websites, unsolicited messages, and phone calls claiming to represent census authorities to solicit financial information and gain remote access to personal devices.
The advisory, released at 2:44 p.m. local time, urges citizens to verify the identity of any official requesting personal details. Police emphasized that legitimate census officials do not ask for bank account numbers, passwords, or remote access to smartphones and computers through unofficial channels. The warning specifically highlights the risk of identity theft and financial loss associated with these digital scams.
Rajasthan has been a focal point for recent digital infrastructure initiatives, making it a prime target for those seeking to exploit public trust in government programs. The state police have coordinated with the Union Government to disseminate the warning through official channels, including social media, local news outlets, and community outreach programs.
Cybersecurity experts note that the timing of these scams coincides with heightened public engagement in the census, creating opportunities for criminals to capitalize on urgency and confusion. The fraudsters are allegedly using sophisticated methods to mimic official communications, making it difficult for some residents to distinguish between genuine and fraudulent requests.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the number of reported incidents or the extent of the financial damage caused by these schemes. However, the advisory serves as a preventive measure to mitigate potential harm before the fraud spreads further. Police are encouraging victims or those who suspect they have been targeted to report the incidents immediately to local cyber crime cells.
The digital census process remains a critical component of national planning and resource allocation, but the emergence of these fraudulent activities raises concerns about public confidence in the initiative. Officials are working to strengthen security protocols and educate the public on safe digital practices.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the scale of the operation and whether similar schemes are being executed in other states. Authorities have not confirmed if any arrests have been made in connection with the fraud attempts. The situation remains fluid as police monitor the situation and update the public on new developments.