Gurugram | December 2, 2025: Haryana Director General of Police (DGP OP Singh) has issued a strong warning to banks, stating that they may be held financially accountable for losses suffered by victims of cyber fraud if investigations reveal any lapse in due diligence. Singh emphasised that the law clearly places responsibility on banks where negligence or delayed action contributes to the fraud.
During an unannounced inspection of the Cyber East Police Station in Gurugram on Monday, the DGP said that failure to flag suspicious transactions, inadequate security protocols, or delay in responding to fraud alerts could all constitute grounds for holding banks liable under the IT Act.
Lok Adalat Route for Faster Relief
Highlighting the need for quicker redressal, Singh said that many cybercrime victims struggle for months to recover even small frozen amounts—often as low as ₹4,000 to ₹5,000.
Citing a High Court directive, he noted that such cases can be taken directly to Lok Adalats without registering an FIR, enabling swift refunds and reducing procedural delays that typically burden victims.
Reducing the Financial Burden on Victims
The DGP pointed out that victims of cyber fraud frequently end up paying substantial legal and banking charges to unfreeze their funds. He directed police and bank officials to streamline processes to ensure that victims are not subjected to unnecessary financial stress during recovery.
Students to Lead Cyber Awareness Campaign
To combat the rising tide of cybercrime, Singh announced the launch of an expanded Cyber Awareness Campaign, which will actively involve young volunteers. The initiative will appoint:
- Head boys and head girls of schools and colleges
- Youth volunteers supported by SPIC MACAY
As “Cyber Awareness Ambassadors”, who will spread awareness on digital hygiene, online scams, and safe internet practices across educational institutions and local communities.
“Cybercrime thrives on greed and fear” — DGP Singh
Warning citizens against manipulative online tactics, Singh said most cybercrimes exploit two human emotions—unrealistic greed and panic.
“If someone promises unbelievable returns or pressures you into sharing personal information, it is almost certainly a fraud,” he stressed. “Alertness is your strongest shield.”
Improvement of Police Station Facilities
During the inspection, Singh also directed officers to maintain a clean, well-organised and comfortable waiting room, ensuring a better experience for complainants.
In a social media post, the DGP mentioned that when he arrived at the cyber police station posing as a citizen reporting a digital arrest case, the gate sentry did not recognise him and politely directed him to the duty officer on the second floor (Room No. 24). Singh described this as an example of proper frontline response, reinforcing that every citizen must receive immediate assistance.
