- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Fri, 04 Jul 2025 11:59 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In response to the rising cases of cyber fraud—amounting to a staggering Rs 33,000 crore nationwide—the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has turned to Artificial Intelligence-based tools to enhance digital safety. With the exponential increase in users of mobile, internet, and broadband services, the threat of cybercrime has also escalated. However, the DoT reports significant progress in controlling fraudulent activities using AI-powered initiatives such as Astra, DIP, Sanchar Sathi, and FRI (Financial Fraud Risk Indicator).
Speaking at an awareness session, Babu Ram, Additional Director General of the Bihar License Area, said that the DoT has been working actively with teams from the Bihar Police, the Bihar Industries Association (BIA), and the Chamber of Commerce to spread awareness about cyber safety measures.
Key AI Tools Being Used:
-Astra: This tool has identified thousands of cases where individuals fraudulently obtained multiple SIM cards by manipulating ID cards and facial recognition data. The department has since deactivated these connections.
-DIP (Digital Intelligence Portal): It helps create detailed profiles or “horoscopes” of cyber criminals, which are then shared with law enforcement and banking agencies for coordinated action.
-Sanchar Sathi: An AI-driven web portal and mobile app (SancharSathi.com) that allows users to block fraud-linked numbers, trace lost or stolen handsets, and view all SIMs issued under their name. It also helps take action against scam calls, SMS, and WhatsApp fraud.
-FRI (Financial Fraud Risk Indicator): This tool provides real-time warnings to users attempting to make UPI transfers to high-risk mobile numbers. In extreme cases, it can even prevent the transaction from going through, stopping financial fraud before it occurs.
The Department’s AI-led approach is being seen as a major step forward in tackling digital fraud and enhancing consumer safety in India's rapidly expanding telecom sector.