Police say social media page monitored only during office hours; urge public not to share sensitive information online
Srinagar, Oct 24:
The District Police Baramulla has issued a public information advisory, urging citizens to use designated emergency helplines and official communication channels for assistance and complaints.
In the advisory, the police said citizens facing emergencies, immediate threats or witnessing crimes in progress should dial 112, the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), rather than relying on Facebook messages or comments for urgent assistance.
The police also highlighted the cybercrime helpline 1930 for reporting cybercrime-related complaints and shared its official email address, dpobaramulla@jkpolice.gov.in, for communication.
According to the advisory, the police department’s Facebook page is monitored only during office hours, from 9 am to 5 pm, subject to staff availability and operational requirements. Direct messages and comments are also monitored during these hours, and responses may be delayed.
The police clarified that social media direct messages are not a substitute for formal complaints, advising citizens to approach the nearest police station or police post or contact the emergency helpline where required.
Citizens have also been cautioned against sharing sensitive personal information, one-time passwords (OTPs), passwords or confidential documents in public comments.
The advisory further stated that every message may not receive an individual response, while encouraging people to follow the official page for verified police updates, traffic advisories, public safety information and community awareness initiatives.
The police urged citizens to verify information through official sources before sharing it, emphasising the importance of public cooperation in strengthening police-public relations and ensuring the timely dissemination of reliable information.