The District Commissioner’s Office in Barpeta observed Safer Internet Day on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of cyber hygiene and raising cybersecurity awareness among government officials and the general public. The event aimed to educate people about safe online practices, the risks associated with cyber threats, and how to protect themselves from online fraud and scams.
Training and Capacity Building for Officials
As a part of the preparations for Safer Internet Day 2025, a training and capacity-building session was conducted for Management Information System (MIS) officials on February 10, 2025. The training focused on equipping officials with the knowledge and tools required to ensure online safety and enhance cybersecurity measures in government offices.
The event was led by Jayanta Bora, ACS, Additional District Commissioner, Barpeta, and attended by key officials, including:
- The Additional District Informatics Officer (ADIO)
- DIPRO, Barpeta
- District Manager of DITEC, Barpeta
- ILRMS Consultant (Revenue, Barpeta)
- Various staff members from the DC Office
Key Discussions on Cybersecurity Awareness
Addressing the gathering, the Additional District Informatics Officer (ADIO) emphasized the need for government officials and employees to be well-informed about online safety and cybersecurity best practices. He highlighted the growing risks associated with digital fraud, urging individuals to adopt secure internet practices.
The National Informatics Centre (NIC) played a crucial role in the event, distributing informative leaflets to educate attendees on cyber threats, safe browsing habits, and precautionary measures against cybercrimes.
Types of Online Scams and Threats Discussed
The ADIO outlined various types of online fraud tactics that cybercriminals use to target unsuspecting individuals. These included:
- Lottery Scams – Fraudulent emails and messages claiming that recipients have won large sums of money.
- Investment Frauds – Promises of high returns through fake investment schemes.
- Phishing Attacks – Fake emails and websites designed to steal personal and financial information.
- Impersonation and Identity Theft – Criminals posing as legitimate individuals or officials to gain access to sensitive information.
- Social Media Scams – Fake profiles and deceptive advertisements aimed at stealing user data or money.
Legal Measures and Precautionary Steps
In addition to highlighting cyber threats, the ADIO provided legal measures that can help combat cybercrimes. He urged attendees to:
- Avoid sharing sensitive personal information online, such as bank details and passwords.
- Verify unknown contacts before responding to financial requests or sharing confidential details.
- Report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities to prevent financial and data theft.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on social media and financial accounts for added security.
- Update passwords regularly and avoid using easily guessable passwords.
Safer Internet Day Celebrations Across Barpeta District
In addition to the main event at the District Commissioner’s Office, Safer Internet Day 2025 was celebrated across various government offices, including:
- Circle Offices
- Block Development Officer (BDO) Offices
- Block Elementary Education Officer (BEEO) Offices
- Municipal Board (MB) Offices
These institutions conducted their own awareness programs, engaging employees and citizens in discussions on safe internet practices and cybersecurity.
Government’s Initiative for a Safe Digital Environment
The Government of India has been actively promoting Safer Internet Day to create awareness about cyber threats and responsible internet usage. The goal is to educate internet users of all ages, ensuring they understand:
- Safe online behavior and ethical internet use
- Best cybersecurity practices to protect personal and professional data
- The importance of reporting cybercrimes to law enforcement agencies
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster digital security, reduce cybercrimes, and enhance cybersecurity preparedness across the country.
The observance of Safer Internet Day at the Barpeta District Commissioner’s Office served as an essential reminder of the growing risks of cyber threats and the need for proactive cybersecurity measures. Through awareness programs, training sessions, and informational resources, the event successfully educated government officials and citizens on safe internet practices.
With digital transformation increasing our reliance on the internet, initiatives like Safer Internet Day play a crucial role in ensuring a secure online environment for all. The government continues to urge people to remain vigilant, adopt secure online habits, and actively participate in cybersecurity awareness programs to safeguard their digital identity and financial security.
