UP Police Launches ‘Digital Warriors’ initiative to Combat Fake News and Cybercrime

The Uttar Pradesh Police has announced a new initiative to enlist youth and social media influencers as “Digital Warriors” to fight against fake news and cybercrime. Directed by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, the program aims to involve students from colleges and universities as well as social media influencers to support police efforts in combating misinformation and raising awareness.

This initiative builds upon the success of the “Digital Volunteers” program launched in 2018, which connected over 10 lakh citizens and 2 lakh police officers via WhatsApp Community Groups. These groups have been instrumental in debunking misinformation and promoting the commendable efforts of the police.

Why Digital Warriors?
DGP Prashant Kumar emphasized the importance of training young minds in critical thinking, enabling them to analyze and verify information. As Digital Warriors, they will help report fake news, raise awareness about cybercrime, and educate their families and communities about the dangers of misinformation and cyber threats.

A pilot program conducted during the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj with the Digital Warriors yielded highly successful results. The UP Police now plans to implement the program at the state level.

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Selection Categories for Digital Warriors
Digital Warriors will be selected in four categories based on their area of contribution:

1. Countering Fake News: Identifying and debunking fake news and alerting the public about its dangers.
2. Spreading Cyber Awareness: Educating communities about cybercrime and preventive measures.
3. Cyber Trainers: Serving as trainers to help others recognize cyber threats and misinformation.
4. Promoting Police Campaigns: Highlighting the commendable efforts and initiatives of the police through creative content.

Students and influencers interested in joining must have a clean record and will be required to fill out a detailed application form, which includes an undertaking pledging their commitment to ethical practices, avoiding the spread of misinformation, and adhering to Indian laws. Participation will be entirely voluntary and unpaid.

Workshops and Cyber Clubs
To equip Digital Warriors with the necessary knowledge, the UP Police will organize workshops in schools, colleges, universities, and police lines. Cybercrime experts, fact-checkers, and trainers from district cyber cells will share technical knowledge and practical insights. Schools and colleges will also be encouraged to establish “Cyber Clubs,” with one teacher designated as the nodal officer. These clubs will conduct activities like poster creation, slogan writing, and social media content development to spread awareness.

Operational Guidelines and Process

1. Selection of Digital Warriors:
   Only individuals with a clean image, free of controversial or negative activities, will be selected. Applications will be invited through a Google Form, and social media influencers from outside Uttar Pradesh may also participate.
2. Voluntary Undertaking:
   Before selection, applicants will submit a written undertaking assuring their commitment to debunking fake news, refraining from spreading misinformation, avoiding any involvement in cybercrime, and adhering to Indian laws. Participation will be entirely voluntary and unpaid.
3. Monthly Reporting:
   Digital Warriors will submit a monthly report detailing their efforts, including debunking fake news, promoting police initiatives, and disseminating important information widely.
4. Appointment of Nodal Officers:
   Each district will appoint a senior officer, such as SP Crime, DCP Crime, or ADC Crime, as the nodal officer to supervise the program and oversee social media campaigns.
5. Adherence to Responsibilities:
   Participants who fail to show interest, misuse their position, or violate the terms of their declaration will no longer be involved in the program.
6. Recognition and Incentives:
   Outstanding Digital Warriors will be acknowledged and rewarded. Their high-quality social media content will be shared on official platforms, and they will receive certificates, mementos, and public recognition from both district and state police.

The UP Police’s Digital Warrior initiative is a forward-thinking strategy to engage the youth and leverage their digital expertise to tackle the challenges of fake news and cybercrime. With proper training and support, these Digital Warriors will serve as a robust shield against misinformation and cyber threats, making the digital space safer and more secure for everyone.