Himachal’s CY Station Data Centre 1930 Receives Prestigious Scotch Award
Shimla, February 15: In a proud moment for Himachal Pradesh, the CY Station Data Centre 1930 has been selected for the prestigious Scotch Award, a recognition that celebrates exemplary contributions to the country. The Scotch Award is presented by the Scotch Group, honoring individuals, projects, and institutions that have made significant efforts toward making India a better nation. The selection of CY Station Data Centre 1930 for this award underscores its impactful role in the fight against cybercrime and its contribution to improving the cybersecurity infrastructure of the state.
The announcement of this recognition has generated much excitement, as it highlights Himachal Pradesh’s growing commitment to addressing the challenges posed by cyber threats. The Cyber Station has emerged as a pioneering force in the state’s efforts to combat cybercrimes, and this award further cements its position as a leader in the realm of cybersecurity.
A Trailblazer in Cybercrime Prevention
The CY Station Data Centre 1930 is a cutting-edge initiative that was inaugurated by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on October 21, 2024. The centre was established with the goal of providing immediate response to cybercrimes and tackling the growing concerns related to online fraud, digital crimes, and other cyber threats in the state. It is part of a larger initiative to strengthen cybersecurity measures in Himachal Pradesh, ensuring that citizens are protected from the rising number of cybercrimes.
The centre plays a crucial role in managing cybercrime complaints across the state. The integration of the NCRP (National Cybercrime Reporting Portal) and the 1930 toll-free number allows citizens to report cybercrimes in real time. This quick response mechanism ensures that any reported fraud can be flagged immediately, enabling authorities to take swift action and prevent further financial loss. In 2024, the CY Station Data Centre handled a staggering 1,10,794 calls, underscoring the extent of cybercrime concerns in the state. Of these calls, 19% came from women, 2% from children, and the remaining 71% from men.
The Operations of CY Station Data Centre
The CY Station Data Centre 1930 is a comprehensive and multifaceted centre that addresses various aspects of cybercrime prevention. It operates through eight verticals that focus on distinct areas of cyber security and crime management. Here’s a breakdown of these verticals:
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Customer Service Support Centre (CSSC): This team operates the 1930 toll-free number 24/7, answering calls and assisting victims of cybercrime.
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Bank Coordination Centre (BCC): The centre coordinates with banks and their respective nodal officers to prevent fraud and resolve issues related to financial crimes.
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HIM Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (HIM4C): This division is responsible for updating the NCRP portal, ensuring that all complaints are recorded and acted upon promptly.
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Data Analytic Centre (DAC): The DAC focuses on data warehousing and data analysis, enabling the team to identify patterns in cybercrimes and strengthen preventive measures.
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i-crack (Cyber Forensic Lab): This unit provides technical support to investigating officers by analyzing digital evidence and assisting in cybercrime investigations.
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Cyber Training & Research Centre (CTRC): The CTRC offers training programs in cyber security and awareness, educating both law enforcement officers and the public about safe online practices.
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Cyber SMAT (Social Media Analyzer Team): This team collects and analyzes cyber intelligence from social media platforms to identify potential threats and prevent cybercrimes.
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HP Cyber Crime Mitigation Centre (HP-CCMC): The HP-CCMC provides technical support to prevent and mitigate the effects of cybercrime, enhancing the state’s cybersecurity defenses.
Impressive Impact in Numbers
The CY Station Data Centre 1930 has had an outstanding impact on the cybercrime landscape in Himachal Pradesh. The centre receives 450 to 500 cybercrime-related calls every day, ranging from financial frauds and social media scams to more complex online criminal activities. Thanks to its highly efficient operations, the centre has become a pivotal tool in managing and addressing cyber threats in real time.
In 2024, a total of 11,982 complaints were uploaded to the NCRP portal, relating to cyber fraud that amounted to approximately ₹114 crore. Thanks to the swift intervention of the Cyber Station, ₹15 crore was successfully returned to the victims. This success story underscores the importance of the 1930 toll-free number and the NCRP integration, which allows financial fraud to be stopped before it can escalate further.
The efforts of CY Station have also been instrumental in raising awareness about cybercrimes in the state. Through constant outreach and education, it has helped many citizens recognize common online scams and fraud tactics, thus empowering them to protect themselves from becoming victims.
The Role of Women in Cybercrime Prevention
An important aspect of the CY Station Data Centre is the active participation of women employees. Out of the 21 staff members currently working at the centre, 9 are women, who are playing a vital role in managing the day-to-day operations of the centre and in responding to the growing number of cybercrimes. Their contribution is especially significant in the context of cybercrimes affecting women and children. Having a dedicated team that understands the gender-specific challenges faced by female victims of cybercrime is crucial to ensuring a more inclusive and effective response system.
Recognition and Future Prospects
The Scotch Award selection has brought much-deserved recognition to the hard work and dedication of the CY Station Data Centre team. Anita Sharma, the in-charge of the Cyber Station 1930, along with her colleague Vasundhara, recently traveled to Delhi to receive the award. Their efforts, along with the contributions of other team members, have set a benchmark for cybersecurity in Himachal Pradesh.
Looking ahead, the CY Station Data Centre is poised to expand its operations further. With increasing reliance on digital platforms and the growing threat of cybercrime, it is essential that the centre continues to enhance its capabilities and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. Future plans include upgrading technological infrastructure, expanding training programs, and strengthening collaborations with other law enforcement agencies across the country.
The success of the CY Station Data Centre 1930 is not just a victory for Himachal Pradesh but a shining example of how effective cybersecurity measures can transform the way communities respond to the growing threats of the digital age. As technology continues to advance, the centre’s role will only become more critical in safeguarding the citizens of Himachal Pradesh from cybercrime.
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