In a major step towards strengthening digital security, the Government of India has introduced new tools to fight cyber and financial frauds, the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) and the chakshu portal. Both initiatives, launched by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the *Sanchar Sathi platform, aim to make online and mobile transactions safer for citizens.
The Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) is a tool developed to classify mobile numbers based on their potential risk of involvement in financial fraud. It helps banks and financial institutions detect and prevent cybercrime by flagging suspicious numbers linked to fraudulent activities. Using this tool, banks can take preventive steps such as declining or delaying high-risk transactions, issuing alerts to users, or blocking payments in real-time.
According to the DoT, the purpose of FRI is to **protect against financial fraud and enhance cybersecurity in the digital financial ecosystem. It works by using a multi-dimensional analytical model that categorizes mobile numbers into Medium, High, or Very High risk levels. These classifications are based on data inputs from cybercrime portals, bank intelligence, and other verified sources. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed banks to integrate this indicator into their systems to ensure timely and preventive decision-making.
For instance, banks can now use FRI to block or delay suspicious transactions, while digital payment platforms like PhonePe or UPI service providers can use it to warn users or stop payments to fraudulent numbers. This real-time monitoring aims to build stronger trust and security in digital banking.
Alongside FRI, the government has also launched the Chakshu portal , another key initiative under the sanchar Sathi program. The Chakshu portal empowers citizens to report fraudulent communication, including fake calls, SMS, or WhatsApp messages, that claim to be from banks, government agencies, or job providers. Once reported, these complaints are analyzed by the DoT and law enforcement authorities, who can then take actions such as blocking suspicious numbers or deactivating linked accounts.
Citizens can easily access the portal by visiting [https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/](https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/) and selecting the “Report Suspected Fraud Communication (Chakshu)” option.
In essence, FRI protects financial transactions, while Chakshu enables citizens to report scams directly, making them both vital parts of India’s digital security network. Together, they mark a significant move by the government to combat cyber threats, safeguard citizens’ money, and build a safer digital ecosystem for India’s growing online economy.
