Udupi: Udupi district police organised a cyber awareness cycle rally on Thursday to educate the public about cybercrimes, online fraud and precautions that can help people stay safe while using digital services.
The rally was flagged off by Udupi Additional Superintendent of Police Sudhakar Naik at Tiger Circle in Manipal. A group of cyclists then proceeded towards Udupi through Kadiyali and concluded the rally at Board High School.
Rally spreads message on safe digital practices
The cycle rally was organised as part of efforts to strengthen public awareness about the growing risks associated with cybercrime and promote responsible use of digital platforms.
During the rally, participants spread messages encouraging people to remain alert while making online payments, using banking applications and sharing information over digital platforms.
The initiative sought to reach members of the public directly and highlight simple precautions that can help prevent individuals from becoming victims of cyber fraud.
With digital transactions becoming increasingly common, police stressed that awareness and personal vigilance remain important safeguards against fraudulent activities.
Police caution against sharing confidential information
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Sudhakar Naik urged the public to remain vigilant against different forms of cyber fraud.
He specifically cautioned people against sharing one-time passwords (OTPs), passwords, PINs and other confidential codes with unknown persons.
He stressed that such sensitive information should not be disclosed to anyone during phone calls, messages or other forms of communication, even if the person claims to represent a bank, government department or other organisation.
Naik also urged the public to exercise caution while carrying out digital transactions.
People should remain alert to suspicious requests and verify information before proceeding with online payments or providing personal and financial details.
Awareness important as online fraud evolves
Cyber fraud can take different forms, including deceptive calls and messages, fraudulent payment requests and attempts to obtain confidential banking information.
Police awareness programmes such as the cycle rally aim to help people recognise potential warning signs before they respond to suspicious communications.
The message is particularly relevant as smartphones and digital payment services have become part of everyday life. A single disclosure of confidential information can potentially expose a person’s financial or personal data.
The police therefore emphasised the importance of not sharing security credentials and maintaining caution during digital transactions.
Police personnel participate
Officials and personnel from various police units and stations in the district participated in the programme.
Manipal Police Station Inspector Mahesh Prasad, Cyber Crime Police Station Inspector Nilesh G Chavan and Women Police Station Inspector Raghavendra were present.
Police sub-inspectors and personnel from various police stations in Udupi district also took part in the rally.
The participation of personnel from different units was aimed at reinforcing the message of cybercrime prevention across the district.
Focus on responsible digital transactions
The cycle rally concluded at Board High School in Udupi after passing through Kadiyali.
The programme combined public outreach with practical safety advice, focusing on precautions that individuals can adopt while using digital services.
The police appealed to people to remain cautious, protect confidential information and verify suspicious requests before making digital transactions.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve public understanding of cybercrime and encourage safer digital practices in Udupi district.