Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa has been ranked the number one state in the country in terms of citizens’ ability to report cybercrime, according to a recent survey by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The state’s top ranking is credited to a comprehensive and sustained cyber awareness initiative led by the Cyber Crime Police Station, Goa.
Over the past year, more than one lakh people across Goa have been sensitized about various forms of cyber threats through targeted outreach programs. These sessions, conducted by cyber police and local station staff, covered topics such as online safety, OTP and UPI frauds, social media scams, AI-generated fake content, sextortion, cyberbullying, and digital arrest scams. Awareness drives were carried out in schools, colleges, corporate offices, panchayats, churches, hospitals, and banks, using English, Konkani, and Marathi to ensure wide reach.
A standout initiative, the *‘Cyber Yoddha’* program, trained 150 volunteers—including students and professionals—to act as Cyber Warriors in their communities. These volunteers assist police in spreading awareness and assisting victims.
Religious festivals and large public gatherings were also leveraged for outreach. During Ganesh Chaturthi, cyber safety messages were broadcast at pandals, reaching nearly one lakh attendees. Similarly, a cyber awareness stall at the Sanatan Shankhanad Mahotsav in Ponda attracted 15,000 visitors.
In collaboration with educational institutions, Goa Police organized a five-day workshop to train school computer teachers, who have since played a key role in educating students. Social media has also become a tool for awareness, with regular updates, viral campaigns like “Cyber Surakshit Goem,” and real-case video reels shared through official Goa Police handles.
The police force itself has undergone regular training on digital evidence handling, FIR registration, and victim-sensitive response procedures. The 24×7 national helpline number 1930 and the *cybercrime.gov.in* portal have been actively promoted, with a dedicated Cyber Crime Reporting & Response Cell ensuring prompt action on complaints.
The survey that placed Goa on top assessed citizen awareness of cybercrime platforms, familiarity with complaint procedures, and knowledge of reportable offences. Officials say early reporting has directly helped prevent financial losses in several cases by enabling timely action such as blocking of fraudulent accounts and payment handles.
“This ranking is a reflection of the people’s growing awareness and trust in the Goa Police system,” said Rahul Gupta, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Cyber Crime. “We will continue to strengthen our outreach and ensure every citizen knows how to protect themselves and where to seek help.”
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