The Andhra Pradesh government is set to launch an integrated cybersecurity framework named 'AP Cyber Guard' to curb the increasing incidents of cyber crimes across the state. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the action plan prepared by the police department at the Secretariat on Friday and directed officials to implement a zero FIR system for cybercrime complaints, ensuring an immediate response to victims.
Zero FIR and Golden Hour Response
The Chief Minister emphasized that as soon as a complaint is received at the cyber war room, a zero FIR must be registered. Banks should be alerted within the 'golden hour' to prevent fraudulent transfer of money from victims' accounts. He stressed the need for coordination between banks, police, the APS, and finance departments to ensure that cyber criminals develop a fear of committing offences in the state, leading to swift arrest and strict punishment.
Six-Pillar Model of AP Cyber Guard
The proposed AP Cyber Guard system will operate on a six-pillar model covering cyber war room operations, 1930 helpline dashboard integration, technology and artificial intelligence tools, capacity building, a three-tier cyber architecture, and public awareness campaigns. Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta explained that a state-level cyber war room with 11 specialised divisions would be established at Prabhala Tech Park in Mangalagiri within 30 days.
District and Regional Cyber Units
The DGP further stated that the state would create cyber units in all 28 districts along with four regional hubs. A mechanism is being developed to contact banks within 10 minutes of receiving complaints and freeze suspicious accounts. The police department is planning to introduce MuleHunter.AI in coordination with the Reserve Bank of India and leading banks to detect fraudulent transactions.
Focus on Awareness and Prevention
Naidu highlighted that 'digital arrest' frauds are trapping even educated citizens and called for massive awareness drives, particularly among retired employees. He directed the police to conduct cyber patrolling and large-scale campaigns to prevent crimes before they occur, aiming to make Andhra Pradesh a model state in cybercrime prevention. The meeting was attended by CID DGP Dr Ravi Shankar Ayyanar, Eagle chief Ake Ravikrishna, chief secretary G Sai Prasad, and special chief secretary Vijayanand.
