With increasing number of travelers heading to countries notorious for ‘cyber slavery’, the Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Ministry of Civil Aviation to instruct all airport operators to educate, alert, and raise awareness among passengers flying abroad.
The MHA has informed the Civil Aviation Ministry that while several measures have been taken to combat cyber slavery in countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Hong Kong, it is essential to alert and spread awareness at all airports. The ministry has also provided content on how to warn passengers about cyber slavery with data. All airports are required to follow these instructions for at least four weeks, after which the situation will be reviewed.
A senior MHA official told News18 that the Civil Aviation Ministry has been asked to address the issue, and a letter has been sent to all airport operators.
“It is requested to spread awareness among passengers flying abroad about cyber slavery through digital displays and standees, as per the design received from MHA, at prominent locations for a period of at least one month at the airport,” says an official communication.
Another communication notes that there have been cases where Indians were taken to Cambodia or Laos under the pretext of being provided employment. The idea is that if airports spread awareness about ‘cyber slavery’, some individuals might reconsider traveling to these destinations.
Idea Came from a Victim
The idea to alert passengers at the airport originated from a victim who had returned from Cambodia, a government official said.
“A victim rescued earlier this year suggested that if airports displayed information about cyber slavery, it could help prevent people from falling victim. The victim stated that they had never heard of the phrase until reaching Cambodia. Consequently, it was decided to warn passengers departing from India about cyber slavery,” the government official responsible for tackling digital crimes told News18.
Agencies Asked to Monitor
Meanwhile, the Immigration Bureau, which falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has also been tasked with investigating the reasons for travel to certain countries. Immigration officials have been instructed to alert passengers as well. Additionally, other airport agencies, including airlines, have been asked to monitor suspicious groups to prevent human trafficking and cyber slavery.
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