Key Facts
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has reported a sharp rise in cyber fraud targeting doctors across the state. Since September 2024, 735 doctors have been defrauded, losing a combined ₹29.88 crore. The bureau held a high-level meeting with medical associations on Tuesday to address the issue.
Details of the Meeting
The interaction was led by TGCSB Director Shikha Goel, along with senior officers Harshavardhan and B. Sai Sri. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between law enforcement and healthcare professionals to enhance cyber awareness and prevention measures. Representatives from major medical bodies attended, including the Indian Medical Association, Telangana Speciality Hospital Association, Telangana Doctors Federation, and Telangana Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association, as well as specialty groups in paediatrics, cardiology, obstetrics, gynaecology, orthopaedics, and dentistry.
Types of Frauds and Losses
According to TGCSB data, the most damaging scams were business and investment frauds, which affected 127 doctors and caused losses of ₹22.39 crore. 'Digital arrest' scams came next, with 22 victims losing ₹2.26 crore. Identity theft affected 144 doctors (₹2.05 crore), impersonation cases involved 181 victims (₹1.32 crore), and advertisement-related frauds impacted 188 doctors (₹1.17 crore). Other reported frauds include job scams, sextortion, loan frauds, insurance frauds, UPI frauds, matrimonial frauds, and cryptocurrency-related offences.
Impact and Response
The TGCSB and medical associations have resolved to work jointly under a shared initiative focused on cyber awareness, prevention, and protection. The goal is to safeguard healthcare professionals from increasingly sophisticated online frauds. Officials urge doctors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the cyber helpline.
What Readers Should Know
- Doctors are prime targets due to their perceived wealth and busy schedules.
- Common scams include investment offers, fake digital arrest threats, and identity theft.
- Always verify unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be from authorities.
- Report cyber fraud immediately to the national cyber helpline (1930) or local cyber cell.
FAQ
How many doctors in Telangana have been victims of cyber fraud?
According to TGCSB, 735 doctors have fallen victim to cyber fraud since September 2024.
What is the total amount lost by doctors in Telangana to cyber fraud?
Doctors have lost a total of ₹29.88 crore to cyber fraud.
Which type of cyber fraud caused the highest losses among doctors?
Business and investment scams caused the highest losses, with 127 victims losing ₹22.39 crore.
Source: www.thehindu.com