‘Protect your customers’: Hyderabad CP Sajjanar tells bankers to act against cyber fraud

Hyderabad: In a strong advisory aimed at curbing rising cybercrime, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police VC Sajjanar has called upon bank employees to play a proactive role in protecting customers from financial fraud.

Emphasising that bankers are custodians of public money, he urged them to remain vigilant and intervene when they suspect customers may be falling victim to cyber scams.

Bankers must stay alert to suspicious behaviour

The Commissioner highlighted that bank staff are often the first to notice unusual customer activity.

He advised bankers to closely observe behavioural changes such as panic withdrawals, sudden liquidation of deposits or taking loans against gold, especially in cases linked to digital arrest scams or fraudulent investment schemes.

If customers appear anxious or behave unusually, bankers should treat it as a potential red flag and inquire further to prevent financial loss.

Focus on protecting vulnerable groups

Sajjanar stressed that extra caution must be exercised when dealing with senior citizens and pensioners.

These groups are often targeted by cybercriminals and risk losing their lifetime savings. Bank officials were urged to guide and warn such customers before they proceed with suspicious transactions.

Report fraud immediately

In case of any suspicious transactions or suspected fraud, bankers should promptly alert authorities by contacting the cybercrime helpline 1930 or dialling 100. Early reporting can significantly improve the chances of preventing or recovering financial losses.

Public awareness is key

The advisory also urged citizens to stay informed and heed police warnings about evolving cybercrime tactics. Awareness and caution at the individual level are critical in avoiding scams.

Reinforcing the need for collaboration, Sajjanar said that only through coordinated efforts between bankers, police, and the public can a cybercrime-free society be achieved.