Dos & Don’ts for Citizens — Cyber Crime Offences

Do

• Use original software purchased from authorized vendors.

• Update your antivirus and other security software periodically.

• Keep removable devices (discs, pen drives, portable hard disks) in proper custody and check them regularly.

• Get maintenance/repairs done only by authorized, reliable agencies to avoid data theft or system manipulation.

• Delete junk or suspicious emails instead of forwarding them.

• Install apps on mobiles/laptops that let you remotely erase or safeguard data in case the device is stolen.

Don’t

• Don’t let unauthorized persons operate your computer or mobile.

• Don’t share your passwords—not even with friends or colleagues.

• Don’t visit pornographic or gaming sites; these are common sources of malware/intrusions.

• Don’t share your debit/credit card details, especially the CVV, with anyone.

• Don’t log in to internet banking via links received in emails or on other websites—always type the bank URL yourself.

• Don’t use internet banking on public Wi-Fi, shared PCs, or in cyber cafés.

Tips to Citizens — Economic Offences

Do

• Verify authorization: Ensure any company seeking public money/investment/deposits is authorized by the relevant regulator (e.g., RBI, SEBI).

• Deal only with authorized representatives of the company seeking investment/deposits.

• Know the categories: NBFCs may collect public deposits as permitted by RBI; public limited companies may collect deposits after meeting prescribed conditions.

• Collective Investment Schemes (CIS): Only collective investment management companies registered with SEBI can launch CIS inviting funds for items like plots/trees or profits.

• Securities issuance (shares, preference shares, debentures) is regulated by SEBI—ensure compliance.

• Take proper receipts for any money deposited/invested, with scheme details clearly stated.

• Before investing in any scheme, confirm returns are from actual business activity, not from new members’ money (to avoid Ponzi/pyramid schemes).

• Verify genuineness of the company and that it is doing real business.

• Before buying land/flat from a private builder/real-estate firm, check credentials and verify title and rights to the land/property.

Don’t

• Don’t share bank account number, ATM PIN, PAN, etc. over the phone with strangers.

• Don’t invest with unincorporated bodies (individuals, proprietorships, partnerships, trusts, etc.)—they are prohibited from taking public deposits.

• Don’t get lured by online deposit schemes promising high returns or gifts.

• Don’t pay processing fees in advance to get a promised future loan.

• Don’t believe interest promises above 12.5% on deposits; higher returns usually mean higher risk.