Haryana Police Unveils 'Impenetrable App' to Combat Ransomware Threats

Introduction of the 'Impenetrable App'

The Haryana Police has introduced a groundbreaking mobile application named 'Impenetrable App', designed to block suspicious international calls, voice notes, and messages linked to ransom attempts. This initiative is part of a broader campaign targeting digital fraud and gangster networks operating from abroad. Ajay Singhal, the Director General of Police, announced several stringent measures to tackle these issues.

Government's Directive Against Cyber Crime

The DGP stated that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has already instructed strict actions against digital fraud and cyber crimes in the state. Banks have also been advised to enhance their dual OTP verification systems to prevent financial fraud.

Aggressive Measures Against Gangster Networks

Singhal warned that individuals making calls for ransom or extortion will be treated similarly to terrorists. He emphasized that the Haryana Police is intensifying its actions against gangster networks based abroad and is taking proactive steps against digital extortion and cyber threats originating from outside India. The 'Impenetrable App' is currently undergoing pilot testing, and officials report positive feedback from initial users.

Recent Police Operations

Highlighting recent police operations, the DGP mentioned three significant cases successfully handled by the force. In Jhajjar, a nine-year-old boy kidnapped for a ransom of ₹5 crore was rescued within 24 hours, leading to the arrest of several gang members. In Panipat, police traced a ransom case linked to a businessman based on threatening letters sent to suspects in Ujjain and Bhopal. In another high-profile case, Haryana Police, in coordination with Punjab Police, apprehended a murder suspect in Kaithal following a shootout related to a homicide in Chandigarh.

Statistics on Gangster Operations

Sharing statistics on anti-gangster operations, Singhal revealed that, in collaboration with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), 17 suspects have been extradited from abroad, 800 gang members have been arrested, 115 lookout circulars have been issued, and 10 suspects are currently in custody overseas. He also noted that both he and his wife received calls related to digital arrest scams, underscoring the severity of this threat.