In light of the escalating concerns surrounding online fraud and deceptive calls, the central government has rolled out the new 'Chakshu Portal' aimed at safeguarding users from cyber threats. Earlier, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had urged telecom companies to implement the Caller Name Presentation (CNAP) service to curb fake calls.
As part of the Sanchar Sathi Initiative, crafted by the Department of Telecommunications, the Chakshu portal empowers users to report fraudulent calls and messages. Developed under the Sanchar Saathi Initiative, the Chakshu portal serves as a Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), seamlessly integrating with Sanchar Saathi. It facilitates swift action against reported numbers and messages. Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for IT and Communications, emphasized that the Chakshu portal is a crucial tool in the government's fight against online fraud.
Goyal highlighted that over the past nine months, the government has prevented fraudulent transactions amounting to approximately Rs 1,000 and frozen around 1,008 bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities.
Understanding the Chakshu Portal:
What is the Chakshu Portal?
The Chakshu portal, launched under the Sanchar Sathi initiative of the Central Government, enables users to report fraudulent communications, including fake calls, SMS, and emails. Additionally, users can lodge complaints concerning bank accounts, payment wallets, and SIM cards.
How does the Chakshu portal operate?
Users can report suspicious mobile numbers and messages through the portal, aiding the government in taking appropriate action against perpetrators.
How to Utilize the Chakshu Portal:
- Visit sancharsaathi.gov.in.
- Select the Chakshu option under Citizen Centric Services.
- Read and acknowledge the disclaimer before proceeding.
- Fill out the provided form with details such as category and time of fraudulent communication.
- Submit your information and enter the OTP for verification.
- Upon completion, a complaint regarding fake communication will be registered.
What types of issues can be reported on the Chakshu Portal?
- Report calls from unknown numbers.
- Track and block lost or stolen mobile devices.
- Verify the authenticity of smartphones, whether new or used.
- Flag fraudulent incoming calls from international numbers.
- Check the credentials of licensed wireline internet service providers.
Why the Name 'Chakshu'?
The Department of Telecommunications opted for the Sanskrit word 'Chakshu,' meaning eye, to symbolize the portal's role in vigilantly monitoring and protecting users from digital mishaps. Through collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications, the platform shares registered complaints on suspicious numbers with central agencies, banks, and financial institutions.
Chakshu, coupled with the Digital Intelligence program, positions the government to effectively combat the rising tide of online fraud in India.
