Chhattisgarh CM Sai flags off SBI cyber security awareness van in Raipur, launches statewide drive against online fraud

RAIPUR: Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday flagged off the SBI cyber security awareness van from his official residence in Raipur, formally launching a state-level campaign aimed at protecting citizens from online fraud and cybercrime.Speaking at the event, Sai underlined both the benefits and risks of rapid digitisation. “Technology has made life easier and transactions faster, but cyber frauds have also increased. With a little vigilance, people can protect themselves from falling prey to such crimes,” he said.Chief minister said that the campaign will use audio-visual messages, street plays, and puppet shows to educate the public about evolving methods of cyber fraud.

He revealed that 29 hotspots across Chhattisgarh have been identified where cyber fraud incidents are more frequent, and the awareness van will focus its outreach in these areas.Appealing to citizens, Sai urged them not to share confidential banking details, passwords, or OTPs with anyone and to avoid clicking on suspicious links. “Cyber criminals keep inventing new ways to cheat people. A moment of carelessness can cost hard-earned savings.

Our effort is to make more and more people alert and safe,” CM said.The campaign, organised by the State Bank of India (SBI), will run from August 15 to November 30, 2025. The van will travel across all 33 districts of Chhattisgarh, spreading awareness about online scams and prevention measures.SBI officials present at the launch said the initiative reflects the bank’s responsibility as “the banker to every Indian.” Citizens were also informed that complaints of online financial fraud can be lodged through the national helpline number 1930.The event was attended by SBI deputy general manager Rakesh Sinha, assistant general manager Deepak Kumar Sinha, and other senior officials.