Haryana has introduced a Dual OTP System in Gurugram, Nuh, Faridabad and Palwal districts to protect senior citizens from cyber fraud, investment scams and “digital arrest” cases. The system requires two separate OTP verifications for bank transactions, with one OTP sent to the senior citizen and the second to a trusted family member linked to the account.
Two-Step Verification for Senior Citizens
Under the new model, every bank transaction involving senior citizens will require successful verification through two OTPs. Officials said the first OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number of the senior citizen, while the second will be delivered to a trusted family member’s linked mobile number.
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The system has been designed to address cases in which cybercriminals manipulate or intimidate elderly people into transferring their savings. It also includes a “safety pause” feature, allowing a family member to intervene if a suspicious transaction is detected.
Pilot Expanded Across More Than 50 Branches
The facility has been introduced in collaboration with several private banks, with HDFC Bank playing a key role in implementation. It was initially tested as a pilot project in Gurugram and Panchkula before being expanded to other districts.
According to HDFC Bank nodal officer Vipin Gupta, work on the project began on April 14, and the system is now active across more than 50 bank branches. He said backend technical upgrades are being carried out to ensure smooth and secure functioning of the feature.
Awareness Drives and Safety App Rolled Out
Nuh Superintendent of Police Arpit Jain said the system has been developed specifically to safeguard senior citizens from cyber fraud. He noted that fraudsters often lure victims through fake investment schemes or threatening calls and siphon off their savings.
Officials said awareness campaigns are also being conducted with Resident Welfare Associations, educational institutions, corporate offices and public spaces to promote cyber safety practices.
Haryana Police has also launched a digital safety application called “Abhedya” to protect businessmen and prominent individuals from extortion threats and gangster-related calls originating from abroad. Gurugram Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Karan Goel said the app works on Android and iOS platforms and can block suspicious calls and voice messages. Faridabad Police Public Relations Officer Yashpal Yadav said at least 21 businessmen have already been provided protection through the app.
