UP Police picks real-life case, Bollywood talent to raise awareness about cyber fraud

To raise awareness about cybercrime, a short film produced by the Uttar Pradesh Police, was released on social media platforms on Thursday. The 5.27- minute-long film, titled ‘Scam Files’, features actor Nana Patekar and is based on a recent real-life incident.

Directed by Raj Shandilya, the script of the film is written by DGP Rajeev Krishna’s PRO Rahul Srivastava.

The film is based on an incident from Kanpur in which an alert citizen thwarted an attempt of cyber fraud being carried out in the name of ‘digital arrest’ by the conmen, said the PRO. The film will run in all cinema halls of the state for awareness purposes, confirmed the PRO.

Shot at multiple locations across Mumbai, the film aims to educate people and prevent incidents of digital arrest.

The film is being released on all official social media platforms of UP Police such as YouTube, Facebook, X and Instagram.

The initiative is part of the ongoing campaign launched by DGP Rajeev Krishna who had announced curbing of cyber crime cases among his 11 priorities while taking charge as state police chief in July. He had tasked senior IPS officers to raise awareness among the public about cyber crimes, its prevention and quick relief to those falling prey to the fraudsters.

In this short film, Nana Patekar has played the role of the aware citizen; the role of his wife has been portrayed by actor Leena Sharma; the role of the fraudulent cyber inspector has been played by actor Kishore Soni and the role of the real police inspector has been enacted by actor Adil Irani.

The short film shows how cyber fraud is committed and ways to prevent the same in a simple, engaging and impactful manner.

The film also conveys the message that there is no legal procedure called “digital arrest”, and that any threatening phone call, video call or demand for online payment may be an indication of cyber fraud.

The DGP has taken part in 11 zonal-level cyber awareness workshops sensitising over one lakh people from over 25 districts, including students, public representatives, members of business community and other sections of society, about the latest methods of cyber crime, preventive measures and necessary precautions.

“This initiative of Uttar Pradesh Police is a significant step towards increasing societal awareness about cyber crimes, empowering citizens and creating a safe digital environment,” said a police spokesperson.

“The short film has been released across all social media platforms of Uttar Pradesh Police,” he added.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Police had produced short films on public awareness about online fraud and internet addiction. Bollywood actors Ajay Devgn, Rajkumaar Rao, Taapsee Pannu and Triptii Dimri have acted in these films.

During Mahakumbh 2025, a short film starring actor Shashi Verma was broadcast to alert the people about hotel accommodation scams. In the same sequence, another short film starring actor Sanjay Mishra was produced to enhance awareness against online fraud.

Ajay Devgn and Taapsee Pannu acted in a short film to make the public aware of the adverse effects of internet addiction. A short film featuring actors Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri conveyed the message of not sharing OTP and highlighted the potential risks associated with it.