In a move to strengthen digital safety, authorities have introduced a dual OTP authentication system across Gurugram, Nuh, Faridabad and Palwal to safeguard senior citizens from rising cyber fraud cases.
The system, rolled out by multiple private banks including HDFC Bank, allows users to link a second mobile number of a trusted family member to their bank account. During a transaction, 2 OTPs are sent to both numbers, and the payment is completed only after both are verified.
Officials said the initiative was first tested in Gurugram and Panchkula before being expanded. Vipin Gupta, nodal officer for the project at HDFC Bank, said, “It was DGP Haryana Ajay Singhal had mooted the plan after which we had started working on the project from April 14. At least 50 branches in Gurugram and Panchkula are giving the facility right now to senior citizen. We are contacting them too to avail it. We are making backend changes to make this security feature technically viable.”
Arpit Jain, superintendent of police in Nuh, said, “Only after both the OTPs are authenticated, the transaction will take place. It will help in protecting senior citizen from cyber frauds especially like digital arrest or stock market investment in which hefty sums or life time of savings are lost by victims.” He added that the system acts as a “protective pause,” allowing family members to step in if fraud is suspected.
Alongside this, Haryana Police has launched a security app called “Abhedya” to protect traders and business owners from extortion threats by overseas gangs. The app blocks suspicious calls and voice notes, and also enables backend tracking of such contacts.
Karan Goel, DCP (West Gurugram), said, “Police will provide installation file for this application to the resident for running it on his phone. It will run on android as well as iOS system. It will block all such calls and even voice notes being sent by gangsters and remove it from the device to keep the person stress free.”
Officials confirmed that 21 businessmen in Faridabad have already been provided this protection. Authorities are also running awareness campaigns across residential and public spaces.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
