Thu Sep 11 13:53:31 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article based on that summary:

**Summary:**

A cyber fraud awareness program, “Knockout Digital Fraud,” organized by Bajaj Finance Ltd. in Ballari, India, highlighted the alarming rise of cybercrime in the district. Deputy Superintendent of Police Santosh Chowan revealed that over ₹70 crore was lost to cyber fraud in Ballari in 2024 alone, and the actual figure is likely higher due to unreported cases. He emphasized that victims are often educated professionals, and fraudsters are increasingly using social media, AI, and fake advertisements to deceive people. He urged citizens to be cautious and use the 1930 cybercrime helpline. The program aimed to educate citizens about common scams and promote safe digital practices, aligning with RBI guidelines on fraud risk management for NBFCs.
Zonal Manager Venkatesan V.S., stressed that financial safety of their consumers is paramount. Practical safety tips, such as avoiding sharing OTPs or PINs, not clicking on suspicious links, QR codes or emails and refraining from downloading apps from unverified sources, were provided.

**News Article:**

**Cyber Fraud ‘Cancer’ Grips Ballari, Costing Residents Crores**

*By [Your Name/Staff Writer]*

**KALABURAGI, September 11, 2025** – Cybercrime is rapidly escalating in Ballari district, becoming “a cancer eating away at the fabric of society,” according to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Santosh Chowan of the Cyber Police Station. Speaking at an awareness program titled “Knockout Digital Fraud” organized by Bajaj Finance Ltd., DSP Chowan revealed that reported cases of cyber fraud in Ballari resulted in losses exceeding ₹70 crore in 2024. Authorities believe the actual figure is significantly higher, as many victims are hesitant to report due to concerns about reputational damage.

The awareness program, part of Bajaj Finance’s 100-city initiative, aimed to educate citizens about the growing threat of digital fraud and provide preventive measures. Retired DSP Sridhar Doddi also participated in the event.

DSP Chowan expressed concern that educated professionals, including doctors, software engineers, professors, and teachers, are increasingly becoming victims of sophisticated online scams. He warned of the rising misuse of social media and artificial intelligence by fraudsters, who are employing fake advertisements using celebrity endorsements and political figures to lure unsuspecting individuals.

“Citizens must remain cautious,” urged DSP Chowan. He encouraged victims to utilize the 1930 cybercrime helpline if they are unable to file a police report in person.

The “Knockout Digital Fraud” campaign also highlighted the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 2024 guidelines on fraud risk management for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), emphasizing the importance of early detection, accountability, and public engagement. Participants were educated on common fraudulent tactics such as fake OTP scams, phishing, loan fraud, pension fraud, and impersonation through social media accounts and websites.

Venkatesan V.S., Zonal Manager (Risk Containment Unit) of Bajaj Finance, emphasized the company’s commitment to consumer financial safety. “The financial safety of our consumers is paramount,” he stated. “We issue advisories online, offline, and on social media, while also holding on-ground interactions with citizens to encourage safe digital practices.”

The awareness drive provided practical safety tips, including:

* Avoiding sharing OTPs or PINs with anyone.
* Refraining from clicking on suspicious links, QR codes, or emails.
* Not downloading apps from unverified sources.

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