Kolkata Police Pioneers Cyber Safety Initiative at Archbishop's Residence
Kolkata Police made history last week with its first-ever cyber-awareness program held at the Archbishop's residence. The cyber cell organized this groundbreaking session to educate priests and nuns about digital threats. Senior officers from Lalbazar explained the campaign aimed to reach a wider audience through these community leaders.
Empowering Religious Communities with Digital Knowledge
Father Moloy D'Costa, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Kolkata, emphasized the program's importance. He noted that while priests and nuns regularly use smartphones, many lack awareness about cyber safety and proper digital hygiene. The initiative encouraged participants to conduct similar programs in schools for both students and parents.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber) Abhishek Modi detailed the program's objectives on the Kolkata Police X platform. He stated the 'Cyber Security and Cyber Safety Section' focused on providing essential digital safety insights. The session covered trending cyber frauds while promoting safe online practices.
Addressing Real-World Cyber Threats
The program featured practical guidance on responsible gadget use and personal information protection. Participants learned effective methods to safeguard financial data in the digital landscape. Archbishop Elias Frank attended alongside dignitaries from various schools and organizations.
Father D'Costa revealed specific topics discussed during the session. These included hacking techniques, financial fraud schemes, digital arrest scams, and evolving cybercrime patterns. He confirmed participants gained valuable takeaways from these discussions.
Trigger Incident and Expanding Reach
Organizers traced the program's origins to a 2024 incident involving two Sisters. Their phones were reportedly hacked after clicking a WhatsApp link from a Nigerian group. This vulnerability became particularly concerning as schools increasingly rely on WhatsApp groups for communication.
The awareness program directly addresses this security gap. Father D'Costa announced plans for regular sessions across multiple platforms. These will keep communities updated about emerging cyber threats and necessary precautions.
Corporate interest has grown following the program's success. Kolkata Police now receives requests from companies seeking similar sessions for employees. This expansion demonstrates the initiative's broader relevance beyond religious communities.
