Critical Cyber Safety Workshop Empowers Women in Telangana

Empowering Women Against Cyber Crime in Telangana

In an era where cybercrime can disrupt lives in an instant, the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) is taking proactive measures to bolster online safety for women. On March 19, 2026, the TGCSB hosted a cyber hygiene workshop themed #OnlineButUnafraid, aimed at educating female journalists about the growing threats in the digital landscape. This initiative is especially timely as it coincides with International Women’s Month, emphasizing the importance of digital empowerment.

The workshop comes against the backdrop of rising concerns about personal safety online. A striking example can be found in the 2023 Korean film, Unlocked, which depicts a woman's life being shattered by a stranger who gains access to her smartphone. This cautionary tale serves as a wake-up call about the potential dangers of neglecting smartphone security. Women, in particular, often find themselves victims of various cybercrimes, including stalking, harassment, and sextortion.

Why It Matters: As women increasingly engage with digital platforms for both personal and professional use, understanding the risks and knowing how to mitigate them is critical. With many instances of cybercrime going unreported due to stigma and self-blame, the TGCSB's workshop aims to empower women to advocate for their own safety.

The Workshop's Key Messages

The #OnlineButUnafraid campaign is designed to instill a sense of digital confidence among women, promoting responsible online behavior and proactive safety practices. Shikha Goel, IPS, director of the TGCSB, emphasized the importance of reducing anxiety surrounding social media presence. “Our aim is to make women worry less about their social media presence. Fear and shying away from being online is not the solution; being aware and vigilant is,” said Goel.

During the workshop, participants learned valuable techniques to protect themselves online. Key takeaways included:

• **Preserving Evidence**: Women are encouraged to document any cybercrime attempts by taking screenshots, as having evidence can significantly improve the chances of apprehending cybercriminals.
• **Immediate Reporting**: Goel highlighted the significance of the 'golden hour'—the critical time frame in which suspicious activities should be reported. The sooner a crime is reported, especially financial crimes, the higher the likelihood of blocking unauthorized transactions and recovering lost funds.
• **Utilizing Official Channels**: Victims can report cybercrimes through the national helpline at **1930** or via the online portal **cybercrime.gov.in**.

The State of Cyber Crime in Telangana

Despite a 25% increase in cyber crimes against women across India, the situation in Telangana has shown a slight decline, with a 3% decrease recorded in 2025. According to statistics, 86,177 FIRs were filed in the state that year, out of which 21,639 were related to cyber crimes. This decline suggests that awareness and proactive measures may be yielding positive results.

The workshop featured Sunny NV, the CEO of Vatins, an IT security service collaborating with the Telangana Police. Sunny shared vital insights into emerging cyber threats and practical safety measures, including:

• **Maintaining a Low Digital Footprint**: Reducing personal information online can help mitigate risks.
• **Upgrading Security Protocols**: Transitioning to **WPA3** for Wi-Fi security is recommended for enhanced protection.
• **Understanding Cyber Security Layers**: Participants were educated on the **seven layers of cyber security** that protect data, from networks to compliance.

Real-World Applications and Cautionary Advice

To emphasize the importance of these teachings, real-life case studies were presented, highlighting how cybercriminals exploit trust and identities online. Sunny urged participants to be cautious: “Never be in a hurry to respond to anyone, even a friend asking for money. It is possible that their ID has been hacked,” he cautioned.

Moreover, he advised against hastily clicking on links or scanning QR codes, stressing the need to double-check URLs and be vigilant about redirects that can signal potential scams.

Looking Ahead: A Safer Digital Future

The efforts of the TGCSB and its partners in promoting cyber safety among women are crucial steps towards building a more secure online environment. As digital interactions become increasingly integral to daily life, awareness and education will play pivotal roles in combating cybercrime.

In the coming months, it will be important to monitor the effectiveness of initiatives like the #OnlineButUnafraid campaign. Continued engagement with women across different sectors can foster a culture of vigilance that not only protects individuals but also contributes to a broader community resilience against cyber threats.

As we advance, it’s essential for women to feel empowered in their online activities, knowing that they are equipped with knowledge and resources to navigate the digital world confidently.

Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: awareness is your best defense against cybercrime.