Mon Nov 17 23:41:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:

Summary:

The Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad, Divya Prabhu G.R.J., inaugurated a “Regional Investors’ Awareness and Online Financial Fraud/Cybercrime Awareness Programme” organized by SEBI for government employees. She stressed the importance of vigilance against online and financial fraud, especially as instances of such crimes are increasing. The program aimed to educate employees on safe investment practices, avoid fraudulent schemes, and understand the risks associated with unsecured online activity, like downloading unverified mobile applications. Senior SEBI officers, M.T. Venkatesh Babu and Badri Narayan, provided detailed information on cybercrimes, safe investment practices, SEBI regulations, and fraud prevention. Further sessions are planned.

News Article:

Dharwad Officials Warn of Rising Online Financial Fraud at SEBI Awareness Program

HUBBALLI, November 18, 2025 – Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad, Divya Prabhu G.R.J., has issued a strong warning to the public regarding the escalating threat of online and financial fraud. Her remarks came during the inauguration of a “Regional Investors’ Awareness and Online Financial Fraud/Cybercrime Awareness Programme” held in Dharwad on Monday, November 17, 2025. The program was organized by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and targeted government employees.

Prabhu emphasized the critical need for vigilance, particularly among employees, their families, and pensioners. “With the growing instances of such frauds, it has become necessary for the general public, employees, their family members and pensioners to remain vigilant,” she stated. She cautioned against being lured by promises of high returns and urged thorough due diligence before making any investments.

The Deputy Commissioner further highlighted the importance of educating government employees and beneficiaries of departmental schemes on safe investment practices and how to identify and avoid fraudulent schemes. She stressed that individuals should gather accurate information from verified sources before investing and be wary of suspicious schemes.

SEBI Senior Officer M.T. Venkatesh Babu delivered a virtual presentation, providing in-depth information on cybercrimes, safe investment strategies, SEBI regulations, investor rights, and the complaint-redressal system. Badri Narayan, another senior SEBI officer, focused on specific online fraud tactics and offered practical advice on how to protect oneself from becoming a victim.

Authorities also cautioned attendees about the dangers of downloading unverified mobile applications, which can lead to data theft and the compromise of bank accounts.

SEBI plans to conduct similar awareness programs regularly to combat the growing threat of financial fraud and cybercrime. Dharwad Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Bhuvanesh Patil, auditor Veena Mudigoudar, and other government officials also attended the program.

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