Urgent Warning: Beware of Counterfeit Emails Impersonating Cyber Crime Officials in India
Authorities Warn of Fraudulent Emails Impersonating Cybersecurity Officials in India
In a pressing warning, Indian authorities have alerted citizens about counterfeit emails impersonating Rajesh Kumar, the CEO of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). These deceptive messages, labeled with alarming subject lines like "Urgent Notification!" and "Court Notification," falsely accuse recipients of engaging in cybercrimes and prompt them to respond immediately.
The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check team has identified these emails as malicious scams aimed at exploiting fears surrounding cybersecurity. With logos from recognized institutions such as the I4C and Delhi Police, these fake correspondences are crafted to appear legitimate. They also misuse the names of senior officials, targeting not only individual users but also government offices and organizations.
Through its official Twitter handle, @PIBFactCheck, the bureau clarified, “Neither the undersigned nor this unit has initiated such emails.” This clear message is part of a broader campaign to curtail misinformation as cybercrime continues to escalate in India.
Alarmingly, reports indicate that cybercrime currently constitutes over 30% of registered crimes in certain jurisdictions, with projections suggesting this could rise to 50% in the near future. Cybercriminals are costing citizens an estimated ₹1.3–₹1.5 lakh every minute, underscoring the urgent need for public awareness and protective measures.
To safeguard against these threats, authorities recommend verifying email sources, avoiding interaction with suspicious content, and reporting any dubious communications to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
As digital scams become increasingly sophisticated, individuals must remain vigilant. With initiatives like I4C promoting cybersecurity awareness, navigating India’s online landscape securely is more critical than ever. Your cautious response to unsolicited communications could be the key to preventing further cybercrimes.