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Context: The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) issued a warning regarding scams on the WhatsApp messaging platform. According to the police think tank, fraudsters are exploiting various methods to deceive users, including the misuse of the "screen share" feature introduced by WhatsApp.

Key points from the warning

Screen Share Vulnerability

• The BPRD highlighted a vulnerability related to the "screen share" feature on WhatsApp. Scammers impersonate officials from banks, financial institutions, and government bodies. Once they convince the victim to share their screen, the scammers install malicious apps or software to extract sensitive information such as bank details and passwords.

Increase in Cyber Frauds

• The BPRD mentioned that numerous frauds have been reported where scammers gain access to victims' screens fraudulently, leading to illicit activities. The note emphasized that such cases have been registered in significant numbers.

Cyber Crime Statistics

• The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) reported that from April 1, 2021, to December 31, 2023, ₹10,319 crore (Indian Rupees) had been lost to cyber fraud. The number of cybercrime complaints in 2023 was around 15.5 lakh, a substantial increase from 26,049 complaints in 2019.

WhatsApp Scam Tactics

• Scammers on WhatsApp employ various tactics, including missed calls, messages offering jobs or business opportunities, and video calls or web links. The goal is to intimidate victims and lead them into situations that result in significant financial losses.

Code-Scripted Bots

• The BPRD highlighted that hackers are using code-scripted bots to identify active users and target them for various cyber threats. The note mentioned specific country codes (+254, +84, +63, +1(218)) that scammers often use, indicating origins from Vietnam, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Malaysia.

Trading Expert Scams

• Users reported receiving messages from individuals claiming to be trading experts, promising guaranteed profits. The scammers provide unauthorized Android applications not available on the Google Play Store for investments. After gaining the user's trust with small profits, they disappear when larger amounts are invested.

Preventive Measures

• Users are advised not to respond to suspicious messages offering jobs or financial benefits. Calls and messages from unknown numbers should be ignored, and users are encouraged to report and block such numbers to expedite the identification of fraudulent activities.

Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD)

• The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), established in 1970, is a pivotal organization within the Indian government dedicated to the modernization and advancement of the nation's police forces.

Key Functions of the BPRD
Research	●Conducts comprehensive research on diverse aspects of police work, encompassing crime trends, investigation methodologies, community policing, and police technology. ●Analyzes global best practices, adapting and implementing them to address specific challenges within the Indian context.
Development	●Develops training programs, manuals, and guidelines to enhance the skills and knowledge of police officers at all levels. ●Offers specialized training in areas such as cybercrime, forensics, disaster management, and human rights.
Modernization	●Assists police forces in acquiring contemporary equipment and technology, including communication systems, forensics tools, and vehicles. ●Facilitates the development of IT infrastructure and the implementation of e-governance initiatives to enhance overall operational efficiency.
Correctional Administration	●Undertakes research on prison management, striving to improve conditions within correctional facilities. ●Provides training to prison personnel, focusing on rehabilitation and the effective reintegration of offenders into society.
Training	●Manages Central Police Training Institutes (CPTIs) in Delhi, Shillong, and Hyderabad, offering advanced training programs for senior police officers. ●Collaborates with state police academies to raise training standards nationally.

Impact and Achievements

• Modernization of Police Forces: Instrumental in equipping police forces with state-of-the-art technology, enhancing their operational efficiency and responsiveness.
• Professionalization of Police Personnel: Elevated professional standards among police officers through comprehensive training programs, ensuring effective handling of complex situations.
• Improved Crime Investigation: Contributed to enhanced crime detection and prevention through research on crime trends and advanced investigation techniques.
• Community Policing Initiatives: Promoted community policing initiatives, fostering trust and collaboration between the police and the public.
• Reforms in Prison Administration: Advocated for and implemented improvements in prison conditions and the treatment of inmates.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Resource Constraints: Faces limitations in terms of budget and manpower, posing challenges to effectively fulfil its multifaceted mandate.
• Gap between Research and Implementation: Emphasizes the need to bridge the gap between research findings and practical implementation in police forces across the nation.
• Adapting to New Technologies: Acknowledges the continuous need for police forces to adapt to emerging technologies, such as cybercrime and social media, requiring specialized skills and training.
• Building Public Trust: Recognizes the ongoing challenge of building public trust and improving the image of the police, requiring consistent efforts at various levels.

Conclusion

• The Bureau of Police Research and Development is a vital organization that plays a significant role in strengthening and modernizing the Indian police force. By conducting research, developing innovative solutions, and providing training and support, BPRD contributes to improved police effectiveness, enhanced public safety, and a more just and equitable society.

Must Read Articles:

Perspective: Overcoming Policing Challenges: https://www.iasgyan.in/ias-gazette-magazine/perspective-overcoming-policing-challenges

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Police forces globally are adopting advanced technologies like AI and body cameras. Should India follow suit? What are the potential benefits and challenges of integrating such technologies into police operations, and how can ethical considerations be ensured?