Cyber fraud has become a significant concern in today’s digital age, preying on unsuspecting individuals with promises of quick returns or high-paying overseas jobs. To tackle this rising menace, iconic Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan has collaborated with the beloved cast of Prime Video’s Panchayat in a public awareness campaign launched by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), a division of the Union Home Ministry.
This initiative aims to educate citizens on identifying and avoiding online scams while encouraging them to report such incidents. With engaging videos and practical advice, the campaign is a much-needed response to the growing issue of cybercrime.
Big B x Panchayat: The Fight Against Cyber Fraud
The campaign brings together Amitabh Bachchan and the cast of Panchayat, including Pankaj Jha (Vidhayak Ji) and Chandan Roy (Vikas), to address two common scams—fake investment schemes and deceptive job offers.
Tackling Fake Investment Scams
The first ad shared by Bachchan on Instagram features Pankaj Jha reprising his role as Vidhayak Ji. In the video, Vidhayak Ji receives a call from a scammer posing as a bank representative, promoting a fraudulent “Paisa Badhao investment” scheme.
When the scammer makes lofty promises about growing investments, Amitabh Bachchan enters the scene and confronts the caller, warning them about the consequences of their actions. Bachchan then advises viewers to use only SEBI-approved apps and platforms for investments and report scams by contacting Cyber Dost at 1930.
Exposing Fake Job Offers
In another video, Chandan Roy, playing his character Vikas, falls for a fake overseas job offer promising a monthly salary of ₹2 lakh. Bachchan intervenes again, educating Vikas—and the audience—about the dangers of such scams. He advises verifying job offers through official channels and seeking guidance from agents accredited by the Ministry of External Affairs.
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Amitabh Bachchan’s Call to Action
Sharing the ads on his social media platforms, Bachchan urged viewers to remain cautious and vigilant. His caption emphasized the importance of staying informed: “Be cautious, be aware!! Always use SEBI-approved apps and platforms.”
Government Backing and Public Support
Home Minister Amit Shah praised the campaign on X (formerly Twitter), commending Bachchan’s active involvement in raising awareness about cyber safety. The campaign arrives at a critical time, as cases of cyber fraud continue to rise across the country.
Be sure, be safe.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 23, 2025
Always ensure that you apply for jobs only on official websites and through approved agencies and safeguard your career from cybercriminals.
Heartiest thanks to Shri @SrBachchan Ji for your support of the Modi govt’s mission to secure our citizens from… https://t.co/FEi0zmJUYd
The ads also resonate with recent real-life incidents. For example, YouTuber Ankush Bahuguna shared his personal experience of falling victim to a scam, which left him locked out of his accounts for two days.
The Importance of Cyber Awareness
The campaign serves as a timely reminder for citizens to stay alert in the ever-evolving digital world. Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting individuals with promises of quick gains or lucrative opportunities.
Key Takeaways from the Campaign:
- Verify Investment Platforms: Use SEBI-approved apps and platforms to ensure your investments are safe.
- Confirm Job Offers: Always check job offers through official channels or accredited agents.
- Report Cybercrime: If you suspect fraud, report it to Cyber Dost at 1930.
- Stay Informed: Follow public awareness campaigns like this one to keep up with the latest scams and preventive measures.
Conclusion: Big B X Panchayat
Amitabh Bachchan’s collaboration with the Panchayat cast for this campaign is a powerful initiative to combat online scams. With its relatable storytelling and practical advice, the campaign encourages citizens to stay alert and informed in the face of cyber fraud.
By educating individuals about scams and promoting safer practices, this initiative sets an example of how influential personalities and engaging content can be leveraged for public good.
Stay vigilant, stay safe, and always verify before you trust!
