Quick summary
Cyber security (सायबर सुरक्षा) means keeping your accounts, money, phone and computer safe from online fraud and harmful software. Most online frauds work by tricking people into sharing an OTP, PIN or password, or into clicking a fake link. A few simple habits stop most of these frauds.
Key points
- Never share your OTP, ATM/UPI PIN, CVV or password with anyone. Banks never ask for them.
- A strong password is long and mixes capital letters, small letters, numbers and symbols.
- Use a different password for important accounts, like email and banking.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA), so a login needs a second proof such as an OTP.
- UPI rule: you enter your UPI PIN only to SEND money, never to receive it.
- Do not scan an unknown QR code to "receive" money; scanning a QR code is for paying.
- Do not install screen-sharing or remote-access apps on a stranger's request.
- Do not click links in SMS or email that ask you to "update KYC" or "avoid account block".
- Take customer-care numbers only from the official app or website, not from random search results.
- Keep your phone, computer and apps updated and use antivirus software.
- Report cyber fraud quickly on the National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or the portal cybercrime.gov.in.
Common online frauds
| Fraud | How it works | How to stay safe |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing | A fake SMS, email or website copies a bank or company to steal your details | Check the sender and website address; type the official address yourself |
| Fake KYC message | Says your account will be blocked unless you click a link | Ignore; contact your bank through its official app or branch |
| Fake customer care | A fake helpline number asks for OTP or app install | Use numbers only from the official app or website |
| QR code scam | You are told to scan a QR code to "receive" money | Receiving money needs no scan and no PIN |
| Screen-sharing app | You install a remote app and the fraudster sees your OTP and screen | Never install such apps for strangers |
| Fake job or loan app | Asks for "registration fee" or access to all your contacts and photos | Download apps only from the official app store; check reviews and permissions |
Safe habits for phone and computer
Malware is harmful software. A virus is a type of malware that spreads by attaching itself to files or programs. Antivirus software finds and removes such programs. Updates fix security weaknesses, so install them on time.
Public Wi-Fi at stations or cafés may not be safe. Avoid banking or entering passwords on it. Lock your phone with a PIN, pattern or fingerprint.
On social media, keep your account private, share less personal information (address, phone number, travel plans) and accept requests only from people you know.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use long, unique passwords | Use your name or birth date as a password |
| Turn on two-factor authentication | Share OTP, PIN or CVV with anyone |
| Check the website address and the padlock | Click links in unknown messages |
| Install apps only from the official app store | Install remote apps on a caller's request |
| Report fraud quickly on 1930 | Wait or feel ashamed to report |
Important terms
- OTP – One Time Password, a short code that works only once.
- Two-factor authentication – login that needs a password plus a second proof.
- Phishing – tricking people with fake messages or sites to steal details.
- Malware – any harmful software.
- Antivirus – software that detects and removes harmful programs.
- UPI PIN – secret number needed to send money through UPI.
Practice questions (with answers)
Q1. When do you need to enter your UPI PIN?
- (A) To receive money
- (B) To check a QR code
- (C) To send money
- (D) To open the app store
Q2. Which number is the National Cyber Crime Helpline?
- (A) 1930
- (B) 9999
- (C) 1234
- (D) 555
Q3. Which of these is the strongest password?
- (A) 12345678
- (B) ravi1999
- (C) password
- (D) Neem#Tree7Rain!
Q4. A caller from "the bank" asks for your OTP. What should you do?
- (A) Share it quickly
- (B) Refuse and cut the call
- (C) Send it by SMS
- (D) Share only half
Q5. A fake message that copies a bank to steal details is called:
- (A) Backup
- (B) Update
- (C) Phishing
- (D) Formatting
Exam tip
Remember three rules: never share OTP/PIN/CVV, UPI PIN only for sending money, and report fraud on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.