Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off the 131st Mann Ki Baat episode with a stark warning on digital arrests—a fraudulent ploy that’s ensnaring unsuspecting Indians daily. Speaking directly to the nation, he painted a grim picture of scammers preying on the vulnerable, from elderly citizens stripped of lifelong savings to parents robbed of education funds for their kids.
‘The awareness has grown since I last spoke on this, yet these crimes persist,’ Modi noted, pointing to recent reports of businessmen tricked by authoritative voices on the phone. Fraudsters pose as officials, coaxing victims into sharing sensitive information. The result? Devastating financial losses that could have been avoided with simple vigilance.
Turning to KYC processes, the PM addressed a frequent confusion: why repeat it if already done? He clarified that in today’s digital age, where everything from subsidies to UPI payments ties back to bank accounts, regular re-KYC ensures safety. But beware—crooks send phony messages and links to phish for data.
Modi’s practical advice was crystal clear: Verify only through your bank’s official channels. Guard your OTP, Aadhaar, and account info like treasures. Change passwords routinely to stay one step ahead. This episode wasn’t just a broadcast; it was a nationwide shield against cyber predators, reminding everyone that skepticism is the best antivirus.