Centre Proposes New Bills for Criminal Law

Introduction

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The way we interact, go about our daily lives and manage our financial resources has completely changed in this digital age. Tasks that were earlier done manually (and were extremely time-consuming) now happen in just minutes and seconds. As this convenience expands, so do the risks that come with it. The proliferation of digital technology has opened up a wide arena where we, as users, are getting exposed to a complex environment of emerging cyber threats at every step. This has become especially true for our senior citizens, who face heightened vulnerabilities owing to their age and situational factors. Therefore, getting an understanding of these risks and knowing how to respond to them is no longer optional.

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Cybercrime against senior citizens is rising every year. The elderly today are using and depending on smartphones, net banking, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and social media more than ever. Scammers are preying on this circumstance and perpetrating well-planned cyber attacks on the senior population. A 2024 report from the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that analysed cybercrime data for the year 2023 found that older adults lost more money per incident as opposed to the younger population. 

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This blog aims at providing practical and easy-to-follow cyber safety tips for senior citizens and a clear action plan on how to respond if they ever fall victim to a scam.

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Safe and Smart Browsing for the Elderly: Essential Cybersecurity Tips

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1. Device safety: Cybersecurity can be ensured with one simple rule, which is securing your device first. This is the first line of defence against cybercrime and can go a long way in preventing online attacks and scams. This device security can be established by using screen locks such as setting up a PIN, lock patterns, fingerprints, or even applying the face lock feature on smartphones and tablets. 

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The next step is to install a reputable antivirus on your device (such as laptops and desktops) and keep updating it from time to time. Enabling additional security features in your devices, such as ‘automatic updates’, further ensures that the phone’s Operating System (OS) and the Applications (apps) remain up to date. This guarantees that the device’s OS and the apps are fully upgraded to catch and fix any new security threats. Users should also beware of any unauthorised software. Suspicious links or messages that offer free software or updates should be avoided at all costs. 

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The Government of India’s 2024 cyber safety booklet also stresses the importance of keeping devices and apps equipped with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of any known vulnerabilities. 

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2. Robust Passwords and 2FA: Weak passwords are one of the easiest entry points for cybercriminals. This is why it is crucial to have strong and robust passwords to keep accounts and devices absolutely secure. It is also important to make sure to avoid using very basic PINs, such as date of birth or predictable ascending digits such as ‘12345’. Also, similar passwords should not be used across various bank, email or social media accounts. While creating a strong password, ideally, one should use a combination of upper case and lower case letters along with mixed digits and special characters. If need be, one can jot down these complex passwords in a separate physical diary to keep a record and refer to it in case of forgetfulness. 

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Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection. Whenever and wherever possible, users should enable OTP (one-time password) based verification or app-based authentication codes. In case someone does end up stealing the user’s password, they would still need the second factor to log in.

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The Government of India supported the Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) initiative, which also provides guidelines that recommend the use of passwords and secure authentication as key cyber safety practices for senior citizens.

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3. Handle messages with caution: Most cybercrime instances against senior citizens are initiated with a phone call, an SMS or a WhatsApp message. Personal details such as OTPs, CVV (3-digit number on the back of a debit/credit card), ATM or UPI PIN, full debit/credit card number, net banking ID and password, etc., should never be shared over a call or a chat. Also, people need to be aware of the fact that genuine officials will never make any demands for such details over calls or messages. ISEA has specifically warned about frauds like phishing, where fraudsters call or message their victims pretending to be from banks, courier companies, telecom operators or from the government to trick seniors into revealing their personal details.

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A caller might say ‘Your KYC can get blocked, give OTP now’ or ‘Your card will get deactivated, click this link’. Hang up immediately! Do not click any links, do not share any number and do not install any app that they suggest (eg. remote access apps).

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4. Banking without worries: Online banking is truly a boon, especially for senior citizens. It eliminates the need to visit the bank in person for every small requirement. But this comfort and ease can serve us well only if we use it with a certain sense of vigilance and responsibility. 

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Users are advised to use only official banking apps that are downloaded from Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. It is also prudent to activate SMS or email alerts for all online transactions so that the user receives timely notifications of any withdrawal or transfer. Users should also avoid using public Wi-Fi connections for banking or UPI payments. It is better  to use your own mobile data or a home Wi-Fi with a strong password. This safeguards your financial transactions. India has a system in place called the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) that quickly responds to online financial fraud, especially with regards to UPI and net banking frauds.

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5. Think before you share: Beyond online banking and other essential activities on the web, lies the world of social media which has seamlessly woven itself into our daily routines. Therefore, gaining awareness about the safe usage of social media is extremely important. For starters, users should keep the privacy settings of their social media accounts as ‘Private’. They should also be mindful of accepting friend requests from strangers or unknown profiles, even if they claim that they know the user. Users must also avoid ‘oversharing’ on public platforms and social media accounts. It is always best to refrain from posting about personal details on social media such as finances, travel schedules or addresses. If a user receives urgent messages from a close friend or a relative asking for money, then it is better to first call them up directly to verify that the request is genuine. 

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The older generation should also be wary of fraudsters who, under false identities, build emotional relationships online and then start demanding money, gifts or even private photos from their victims. 

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6. Stay a step ahead: Lastly, senior users can stay a step ahead in this game by familiarising themselves with the typical scams that are targeted towards their age group. This know-how will prepare them to identify scam patterns and early warning signs. Discussing experiences or sharing knowledge with family members or peers can also help seniors bridge the gap between awareness and action.

Fallen for a scam? Don’t panic! Here’s what seniors should do next: An action plan for recovery and protection

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We are all human at the end of the day. Anyone can fall for a scam, even the most careful people. The important thing is how to ‘respond’ after getting scammed. As per the 2023 Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Elder Fraud Report, prompt reporting after a scam can improve the chances of either freezing or retrieving the stolen money. If you have fallen for a scam, here is what you should do:

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1. Keep calm and disconnect: Though it may feel challenging, but the first instinct that victims should display is to keep their calm and hang up the phone. The victim should then block the number and refrain from responding to any further emails or messages. Any remote access app, screen sharing app or a support tool that were installed at the request of the caller, should be instantly uninstalled.

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2. Alert your bank right away: Time is of the essence when it comes to online financial frauds. If a user has been scammed and he is aware of it, then he should immediately call the official customer care number of his bank. It is to be noted here that this number should be verified from the bank’s website or from the user’s credit/debit card. Once the user is connected to the bank’s support staff, he should inform them clearly that he has been a victim of an online fraud. The support staff may guide the user regarding the options that he can undertake. These can be: blocking the cards, freezing the account or an attempt from the bank’s interface to try and stop or recall the recent transaction. 

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has laid down certain guidelines on unauthorised electronic banking transactions that encourage quick reporting and provide a steady framework for customer liability. Also, if in case a victim feels that the bank’s response has been unsatisfactory, the complaints can be further escalated to the RBI Ombudsman.

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3. Reset online credentials: Once the victim has spoken to the bank and taken all necessary steps in that regard, the next step is to reset the passwords. Passwords for netbanking, UPI apps, email accounts, social media, shopping platforms, etc., should all be changed. The victim can also turn on two factor authentication for all important accounts. Incase some critical information like PAN (Permanent Account Number) or Aadhar or SSN (Social Security Number ) has been shared, the victim should be on the lookout for any identity theft in the form of unknown loans, new cards or credit enquiries. 

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4. Notify official cybercrime portals or authorities: The next step is to inform the relevant cybercrime authorities in your region. In India there is a government backed National Cyber Crime Helpline which is a part of the Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System. The aim of the helpline is to prevent further losses in digital payment frauds. Victims can also file a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting portal. Other than these options, the victim can visit the nearest police station along with copies of their online complaint, bank statements, transaction receipts and ID proofs. 

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In the US, such complaints can be lodged with the IC3 which runs a specialised elder fraud program. The IC3 also publishes the annual Elder Fraud Report and lays down latest guidelines and trends regarding cybercrime.

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5. Preserve proofs of the scam: The IC3’s 2023 report notes that detailed and prompt reporting by the victim enables law enforcement and financial institutions to deploy ‘Financial Fraud Kill Chain’ procedures that help in tracing or freezing stolen funds. This is why it is very important to preserve the evidence of a cyber scam. Proper documentation can help banks and law enforcement agencies to properly investigate a case. If possible, the victim should save all messages, WhatsApp chats, emails, screenshots and voice recordings. Establishing a clear timeline of the events also helps. Minute details such as: when the first call was received, what was said and when the money exited the victim’s account, significantly help in piecing together the full picture. Victims should also keep a record of all bank statements and transaction alert messages related to the fraudulent activity. 

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6. Helping seniors heal: Apart from monetary damage, the emotional impact of a scam should also be acknowledged. Getting scammed can be deeply humiliating for senior citizens, especially at their age where everyday life may already feel quite overwhelming. Also, when it comes to their lifelong savings, the ramifications of becoming a victim of an online financial scam can be quite distressing for seniors. The US Department of Justice’s elder fraud content emphasises on the fact that senior victims need ample emotional support and should not be blamed or shamed for their predicament.

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Families and caregivers can guide the elderly victims step by step through the recovery process which includes taking the necessary technical steps, filling out forms and following up with banks or authorities. For large value frauds, repeated targeting or cases that involve identity theft, getting a legal consult for the victim is highly advisable. This kind of support and reassurance can help seniors reduce their anxiety and regain their inner strength.

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Secure today, safe tomorrow

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The rate of cybercrime against senior citizens isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Scammers are refining their techniques every day. Therefore, the best long standing defence against cybercrime is to make cyber safety a regular habit. This can be achieved with the support of families, caregivers and communities. Beyond the practical steps, spreading awareness and maintaining an open dialogue is equally important. Senior citizens should feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns and continue learning from experiences, be it theirs or of others. Reinforcement of safe online practices should become ingrained at the core of every society. When cybersecurity practices merge with everyday life, seniors gain both protection and confidence. Simple and steady digital safety practices that come with guidance and reassurance empower the seniors to enjoy the benefits of technology without fear.

Simply put, the habits that are adopted today will lay the foundation for a secure and safer digital tomorrow.

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References  

• https://bankingjournal.aba.com/2024/11/ftc-older-adults-lost-up-to-61-5b-to-fraud-in-2023/
• https://www.cert-in.org.in/PDF/CSH_Booklet.pdf
• https://infosecawareness.in/concept/cyber-security-tips-for-senior-citizens
• https://cybercrime.gov.in/UploadMedia/instructions_citizenreportingcyberfrauds.pdf
• https://www.ic3.gov/annualreport/reports/2023_ic3elderfraudreport.pdf
• https://www.arklegal.in/post/how-to-report-cyber-crime-in-india
• https://www.pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1814120
• https://cybercrime.gov.in/Webform/crmcondi.aspx
• https://www.justice.gov/archives/stopfraud-archive/elder-fraud-and-financial-exploitation
• https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/federal-trade-commission-protecting-older-adults-report_102024.pdf
• https://www.unionbankofindia.bank.in/pdf/cyber-security-customer-awareness-guide-vol-v.pdf
• https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s371e09b16e21f7b6919bbfc43f6a5b2f0/uploads/2024/11/20241111752149945.pdf
• https://www.dsci.in/files/content/documents/2024/CSAM24-Infographic_Cyber-Safety-Essentials-for-Senior-Citizens-v1.pdf

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Executive Summary:

A widely circulated social media post claims that the Government of India has reportedly opened an account—Army Welfare Fund Battle Casualty—at Canara Bank to support the modernization of the Indian Army and assist injured or martyred soldiers. Citizens can voluntarily contribute starting from ₹1, with no upper limit. The fund is said to have been launched based on a suggestion by actor Akshay Kumar, which was later acknowledged by the Prime Minister of India through Mann Ki Baat and social media platforms. However, the fact is that no such decision has been taken by the cabinet recently, and no such decision has been officially announced.

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Claim:

A viral social media post claims that the Government of India has launched a new initiative aimed at modernizing the Indian Army and supporting battle casualties through public donations. According to the post, a special bank account has been created to enable citizens to contribute directly toward the procurement of arms and equipment for the armed forces.

It further states that this initiative was introduced following a Cabinet decision and was inspired by a suggestion from Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, which was reportedly acknowledged by the Prime Minister during his Mann Ki Baat address.

The post encourages individuals to donate any amount starting from ₹1, with no upper limit, and estimates that widespread public participation could generate up to ₹36,000 crore annually to support the armed forces. It also lists two bank accounts—one at Canara Bank (Account No: 90552010165915) and another at State Bank of India (Account No: 40650628094)—allegedly designated for the "Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund."

The statement said,” The government established a range of welfare schemes for soldiers killed or disabled while undertaking military operations in recent combat. In 2020, the government established the 'Armed Forces Battle Casualty Welfare Fund (AFBCWF)', which is used to provide immediate financial assistance to families of soldiers, sailors and airmen who lose their lives or sustain grievous injury as a result of active military service.” 

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We also found a similar post from the past, which can be seen here.
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Fact Check:

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The Press Information Bureau (PIB) have responded to the viral post stating that it is misleading, and the Government has not launched any message inviting public donations towards the modernisation of the Indian Army or for purchasing Weapons for the army. The only known official initiative by the Ministry of Defence is the "Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund", which is an initiative set up to support the families of our soldiers who have been marshalled or grievously disabled in the line of duty, not for buying military equipment.

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In addition, the bank account details mentioned in the Viral post are false, and donations and charitable donations submitted to the account have been dishonoured. 

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The other false claim says that actor Akshay Kumar is promoting or heading this message-there is no official/disclosure record or announcement related to him leading or sponsoring this project. Having said that in 2017, Akshay Kumar encouraged public contributions of just one rupee per month to support the armed forces, through a web portal called “Bharat Ke Veer”. The platform was developed in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs

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Citizens have to rely on only official government sources and ignore misleading messages on such social media platforms.

Conclusion:

The viral social media post suggesting that the Government of India has initiated a donation drive for the modernisation of the Indian Army and the purchase of weapons is misleading and inaccurate. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), no such initiative has been launched by the government, and the bank account details provided in the post are false, with reported cases of dishonoured transactions. The only legitimate initiative is the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund (AFBCWF), which provides financial assistance to the families of soldiers who are martyred or seriously injured in the line of duty. While actor Akshay Kumar played a key role in launching the Bharat Ke Veer portal in 2017 to support paramilitary personnel, he has no official connection to the viral claims.

• Claim: The government has launched a public donation message to fund Army weapon purchases.
• Claimed On:  Social Media
• Fact Check: False and Misleading

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Executive Summary

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An image of a banknote featuring Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is going viral on social media, with claims that Iran’s central bank has issued a newly designed 5 million rial note bearing his portrait. However, a fact-check by the CyberPeace Research Wing  has found the claim to be misleading.

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Claim
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The image was shared by a verified user, “Sprinter Press Agency,” on X (formerly Twitter), claiming that the Central Bank had introduced a new banknote design featuring the leader of the Islamic Revolution.

• https://x.com/ImHuMeer786H/status/2048042719231291661

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Fact Check

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To verify the claim, relevant keywords were searched across multiple credible sources. No reports were found from any reputable international media outlet, Iranian government platform, or the Central Bank of Iran confirming the release of such a banknote. A technical analysis of the viral image was also conducted. According to the AI detection tool Zhuque AI Detection Assistant, there is a 63.8% probability that the image is AI-generated, raising further doubts about its authenticity.

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Conclusion:
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The claim that Iran’s central bank has issued a new 5 million rial banknote featuring Ayatollah Khamenei is misleading. There is no official confirmation of such a release, and available evidence suggests that the viral image is either edited or AI-generated.

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