Mohali, July 22: Punjab Police on Monday launched its first-ever cyber kiosk for malware analysis of mobile devices. Installed at the State Cyber Crime Office in Mohali, the kiosk is a self-service facility that allows the public to scan and clean their mobile phones and external storage devices from malware, unsafe files, and suspicious apps.
Described as a technological leap in public cyber hygiene, the cyber kiosk marks a state-first initiative by the Punjab Police. “This is a people’s initiative for digital security,” said Special Director General of Police (DGP), Cybercrime, V. Neerja, while inaugurating the kiosk at the State Cybercrime Office, Phase 4, Mohali.
The machines have initially been installed at four key locations — Mohali, Ludhiana CP Office, Jalandhar, and Amritsar — with plans to expand them across all districts.
“These kiosks are designed to empower citizens to detect and remove malware from their Android or iOS devices, USB drives, and external storage units in just two to five minutes,” Neerja said, while addressing representatives of public welfare and industry bodies during the event.
Crucially, the service is available free of charge and operates 24/7. “Each scan is fast, secure, and fully confidential — there is no risk of data leakage,” Neerja assured.
The Special DGP urged citizens to make full use of the kiosks and remain alert to online threats. “The need for public awareness and proactive prevention of cyber crimes is greater than ever,” she said, calling on people to report any suspicious activity through the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or the Punjab Police’s ‘Cyber-Mitra’ chatbot at cybercrime.punjabpolice.gov.in.
The initiative comes amid rising concerns over malware infections and phishing attacks in India. With cyber threats growing increasingly sophisticated, officials say the kiosks are part of a broader strategy to equip the public with accessible tools to secure their devices and data.
