FIGHTING DIGITAL FRAUD: PSI Yashika Sancoalkar from the Crime Branch addresses participants during an awareness session on the alarming rise in cybercrime cases across the State.
MAPUSA
In response to the growing menace of cybercrime in Goa, a cybersecurity awareness session was held on Sunday at St Thomas Parish Hall, Aldona, to equip the community with essential knowledge on digital safety and fraud prevention.
The session, themed “Cyber Crimes in Goa,” was organised by St Sebastian Parish, Calvim, in association with St Thomas Parish, Aldona, and featured PSI Yashika Sancoalkar from the Crime Branch, Ribandar, as the resource person. Over a hundred participants from parishes under the Aldona deanery attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, PSI Sancoalkar drew attention to the alarming rise in cybercrime cases in the State – including financial scams, online fraud, impersonation and social media exploitation. She underscored the need for cyber literacy, vigilance and responsible digital behaviour, noting that fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated methods to deceive people.
The talk offered practical safety measures for all sections of society – students, homemakers, professionals and especially senior citizens – while also sharing insights on global cybercrime trends and preventive strategies.
Participants described the session as eye-opening and relevant.
Aleen Dias, a student from Calvim, said, “I didn’t realise so many people had fallen victim to cyber scams. Now I know how important it is to use my mobile responsibly.”
Senior citizen attendees appreciated the clarity and simplicity of the presentation, with one remarking that it was “much needed and very practical.”
Another youth participant noted, “The talk opened my eyes to the misuse of artificial intelligence and online scams. I’ll definitely be more cautious online.”
