Lost your phone? Get it back—without running around police stations!

Lost your phone? Get it back—without running around police stations!

Losing a mobile phone can turn life upside down. Today, a phone is far more than a calling device—it stores contacts, banking apps, financial details, photos, and important documents. When such a crucial device is lost or stolen, the fear of data misuse and financial loss is overwhelming. Add to that repeated visits to police stations, and many people eventually give up hope of recovery.

But here’s the good news: you can now report a lost or stolen phone online—from home—and significantly improve the chances of getting it back.

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CEIR portal: A big relief for mobile users

The Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal has been developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Central Government. This portal is already working successfully across India.

In coordination with police departments in multiple states, thousands of lost and stolen phones have been traced and returned to their owners. Instead of repeatedly visiting police stations, users can now complete most of the process online.

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What exactly is CEIR?

CEIR is a centralized national database created to block and track lost or stolen mobile phones.

• It is connected to all telecom operators in India

• Uses the phone’s IMEI number (unique 15-digit identity of every mobile)

• Once blocked, the phone cannot be used on any network in India

• Even if someone inserts a new SIM, the phone will not work

This makes stolen phones useless for criminals—and increases the chances of recovery.

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How to file a complaint on CEIR (step by step)

1️⃣ Block your SIM immediately

As soon as you realize your phone is missing:

• Call your telecom operator

• Get the SIM card blocked to prevent misuse

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2️⃣ File a police complaint (e-FIR)

• File an e-FIR on your state police website/app

• If online FIR is not available in your state, visit the police station once

• Save a digital copy or receipt number of the complaint

Many states now allow online FIR filing, making this step much easier.

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3️⃣ Register on the CEIR portal

• Visit ceir.sancharsaathi.gov.in

• Select “Block Stolen/Lost Mobile”

• Enter required details:

  • Mobile brand & model

  • IMEI number

  • Copy of police complaint (receipt number or PDF)

  • Purchase bill (if available)

Once submitted, the phone is instantly blocked across all networks.

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What happens after blocking?

• The stolen phone becomes non-functional

• Any attempt to use it triggers alerts in the system

• Police and telecom networks are notified

• This significantly improves recovery chances

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Key benefits of CEIR

✔ Protects your banking apps and personal data
✔ Prevents misuse of stolen phones
✔ Helps police trace and recover devices
✔ Buyers of second-hand phones can check if a phone is stolen
✔ Saves time—no repeated police station visits

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In short

If your phone is lost, don’t panic and don’t give up. With the CEIR portal, technology is now on your side. Act quickly, follow the steps, and you may soon have your phone back—without unnecessary hassle.

MSEdgeRedirect

A Tool to Redirect News, Search, Widgets, Weather, and More to Your Default Browser

This tool filters and passes the command line arguments of Microsoft Edge processes into your default browser instead of hooking into the microsoft-edge: handler, this should provide resiliency against future changes. 

Additionally, an Image File Execution Options mode is available to operate similarly to the Old EdgeDeflector. Additional modes are planned for future versions.

No Default App walkthrough or other steps, just set and forget.

https://github.com/rcmaehl/MSEdgeRedirect

Beware of Fake Websites

Beware of Fake Websites: Don’t Fall Into the Online Fraud Trap

Online fraud is evolving rapidly, and fake websites have become one of the most common tools used by cybercriminals. These sites are designed to look authentic, tricking users into sharing personal details, passwords, and even banking information. Staying alert and knowing the warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim.

Here are some key red flags to watch out for:

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🔍 Subtle Changes in Domain Names

Fraudsters often clone popular websites and make tiny changes to their domain names to deceive users.
For example, a trusted site like flipkart.com may appear as flipkartoffers.in, or letters may be replaced with similar-looking numbers—like using “0” instead of “o” in amazon.in.
These changes are easy to miss unless you look carefully. Always double-check the website address before shopping or entering any details.

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✍️ Spelling Errors and Poor Content

Reputed companies invest heavily in professional design and content. Their websites rarely contain spelling mistakes or awkward sentences.
If you notice frequent typos, grammatical errors, low-quality images, or poorly designed pages, it’s a strong sign that the website may be fake. Such errors often occur when sites are created hastily without proper review.

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📞 Missing or Suspicious Contact Details

Genuine websites clearly display an “About Us” section, office address, and customer support details.
Fake websites often avoid providing this information deliberately.
Be cautious if:

• There is no company background mentioned

• Only a free email ID (like Gmail or Yahoo) is listed

• There’s no valid customer care number or physical address

These are strong indicators of a scam.

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🔒 No Secure Connection

Secure websites use SSL/TLS certificates to encrypt data shared between your device and the site.
Always check the URL:

• https:// indicates a secure connection

• http:// means the site is not secure

If a website asks for sensitive information without a secure connection, avoid it immediately.

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💸 Deals That Look Too Good to Be True

Unbelievably low prices on branded products are a common trap. Fraudsters use tempting offers to rush users into quick payments.
If a deal seems unrealistic, pause and verify before proceeding.

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⏱️ Pressure Tactics and Push Messages

Messages like “Only one item left!”, “Offer ends in 5 minutes!”, or countdown timers that reset on refresh are classic manipulation techniques.
The goal is to push you into making a quick decision without checking the site’s authenticity. Legitimate websites rarely pressure users this way.

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✅ Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Before making any online purchase or sharing personal information, take a moment to verify the website. A little caution can protect you from big losses. When in doubt, it’s always better to step back and double-check than to regret later.

Bharat Taxi: Zero-Commission Cab Service to Launch from January 1

Bharat Taxi: Zero-Commission Cab Service to Launch in Delhi from January 1

In a major move that could reshape India’s cab-hailing ecosystem, the Delhi government is set to launch the Bharat Taxi app from January 1. The app will offer a strong alternative to private ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Ola, and Rapido. Notably, this is the first time in the country that a cooperative-based cab service is being launched under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Cooperation.

As a New Year gift to Delhiites, Bharat Taxi services will begin operations in the national capital and will later be expanded across the country. The platform will provide auto, cab, and bike taxi services, with all necessary arrangements already completed in Delhi.

A Cooperative Model for Cab Services

Unlike existing private platforms, Bharat Taxi will function as a cooperative cab service, operated by Cooperative Limited. The initiative aims to empower drivers while offering affordable and transparent pricing to passengers.

Zero-Commission Model

One of the biggest highlights of the Bharat Taxi app is its zero-commission model. Under this system, drivers receive 100% of the fare earned from each ride. They are required to pay only a very nominal fee to operate on the platform, unlike private apps that deduct heavy commissions from drivers’ earnings.

From January 1, Delhi residents will be able to book autos, taxis, and bike rides through the Bharat Taxi app by simply registering with their mobile number.

Available on Android and iOS

The Bharat Taxi app will be available on both Android and iOS platforms. With no service charges or hidden commissions, the initiative is expected to provide significant relief to passengers from high cab fares.

According to the Centre, around 56,000 drivers have already registered on the Bharat Taxi platform. The government believes this cooperative, driver-friendly approach will create healthy competition in the cab-hailing market while ensuring fair earnings for drivers and affordable rides for users.

Aadhaar New Rules: Do You Know What Has Changed? How Does Face Authentication Work?

Aadhaar New Rules: Do You Know What Has Changed? How Does Face Authentication Work?

The central government has recently notified new Aadhaar rules that are set to significantly transform India’s digital identity ecosystem. Two key changes stand out—formal approval for face authentication and much stricter privacy safeguards. With these updates, Aadhaar usage is being redefined not only for government services but also for private entities, within a clear legal framework.

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Why Is Face Authentication Important?

Until now, Aadhaar verification relied on fingerprints, iris scans, or OTP (One-Time Password). Under the new rules, face authentication has been officially recognized as an additional method of verification.

This is particularly useful in situations where fingerprints do not match properly or iris scans are difficult to capture. UIDAI considers face authentication as “Proof of Presence”, meaning it confirms that the Aadhaar holder is physically present at the place of verification.

This approach is similar to DigiYatra-style identity checks and has the potential to expand into everyday use cases such as event entry, hotel check-ins, and delivery confirmations.

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Strong Focus on Privacy Protection

Privacy has been given top priority under the new Aadhaar rules. These changes align closely with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act.

Key privacy safeguards include:

• The purpose of Aadhaar usage must be clearly stated

• Explicit consent must be taken from the user

• Only minimum required data should be collected

For example, if a service needs only age verification or a photograph, there is no requirement to share full Aadhaar details. Limited, purpose-specific information will be sufficient.

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Offline Aadhaar Verification for Private Use

Earlier, some private entities collected Aadhaar details using OTP-based online access to UIDAI portals. UIDAI has now clarified that this practice is not legal.

The new rules remove this ambiguity by promoting offline Aadhaar verification. Aadhaar holders can share digitally signed Aadhaar details without any connection to UIDAI’s central database.

This can be done through:

• QR codes

• The new Aadhaar mobile app, which stores Aadhaar details securely on the user’s device

The app allows users to share only selected information, ensuring complete control over personal data and eliminating privacy risks.

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What This Means for Users

With innovations like face authentication and offline verification, Aadhaar services are becoming more convenient, secure, and privacy-friendly. Users can now access services easily while retaining full control over how and what personal information is shared.

In short, the new Aadhaar rules aim to balance ease of use with strong data protection, marking a major step forward in India’s digital identity framework.

Updates

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[UPDATES TO THE PREVIOUS BLOG POSTS]

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శ్రీవారి ఆర్జిత సేవలు.. 2026 మార్చి నెల కోటా టికెట్లు:

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2025/03/ttd-official.html

PrintFriendly - Print, PDF, and Screenshot Web Pages

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2022/01/webpage-to-pdf.html

TELANGANA: ONLINE SAND BOOKING

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2015/03/telangana-online-sand-booking.html

Telangana Govt. Websites

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2015/02/telangana-govt-websites.html

National Portal of India

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2015/03/national-portal-of-india.html

APSRTC Websites

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2023/09/apsrtc-websites.html

TGSRTC Websites

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2023/09/tsrtc-websites.html

TGSRTC Bus Tracking

https://infotech.sitescape.co.in/2023/09/tsrtc-bus-tracking.html

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Have You Updated Your Aadhaar? Don’t Ignore This Important Rule

Have You Updated Your Aadhaar? Don’t Ignore This Important Rule

Aadhaar is essential for accessing government schemes, certificates, scholarships, and many other services. Even if you obtained your Aadhaar at a young age, it must be updated at specific stages. Many people are facing difficulties simply because these updates were skipped. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has clearly advised that children’s Aadhaar must be updated after 5 years of age and again before turning 15.

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Aadhaar for Newborns and Young Children

Aadhaar issued to children from birth up to the age of five is known as Bal Aadhaar. It includes only the child’s photograph, name, and date of birth. At this stage, fingerprints and iris scans are not collected. The Aadhaar is issued based on the details of one of the parents.

UIDAI has stated that biometric details—fingerprints and iris—must be added once the child completes five years of age.

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Mandatory Update After Five Years

If Aadhaar was issued before the child turned five, a Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) is required after five years. This is the child’s first biometric update. During this process, complete biometric data is collected for the first time.
Importantly, the Aadhaar number remains the same. According to the Aadhaar Regulations, 2016, this update is compulsory for all children.

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What Happens If You Don’t Update?

If the Aadhaar is not updated after the child turns five, the Aadhaar number may be deactivated. UIDAI has specified that the biometric update must be completed within two years—ideally before the child turns seven.

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Documents Required

• First-time Aadhaar (Bal Aadhaar): Birth certificate and Aadhaar of one parent

• Children below five years do not need to visit Aadhaar centers

• Biometric updates (after 5 and 15 years): Child’s presence is mandatory

Currently, Aadhaar updates for children below 17 years are provided free of cost.

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Bottom line: If your child has an Aadhaar, make sure the biometric updates are completed on time. A small delay today can lead to big problems later.

25 Crore People Are Actively Using It… What About You?

25 Crore People Are Actively Using It… What About You?

The government’s DigiLocker platform has seen massive adoption across the country. As of December this year, the number of registered users on the DigiLocker app has touched 60.35 crore. Out of these, nearly 25 crore users are actively accessing certificates and availing various services through the platform. However, a large number of users have installed the app but are yet to make full use of it.

DigiLocker allows citizens to store and access important government-issued documents digitally. Educational certificates, Aadhaar, driving licence, PAN card, vehicle documents, insurance papers, and several other certificates can be safely kept in one place. With this facility, there is no need to carry physical documents, making it a truly paperless and convenient system.

Launched by the Central Government in 2015, DigiLocker is designed to simplify document management. By installing the app on your mobile phone or accessing it on a laptop, you can securely store Aadhaar and other essential documents. Whenever government officials ask for identity proof or certificates, you can simply open DigiLocker and show the digital copies. Motorists, in particular, benefit greatly as driving licences, RCs, and insurance documents stored in DigiLocker are considered valid, eliminating the need to carry hard copies.

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How to Use DigiLocker

• Download and install the DigiLocker app on your mobile phone or access it via a laptop.

• Register using your name, date of birth, and mobile number.

• An OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked with your Aadhaar. Enter it to activate your account.

• Once logged in, tap the search option and look for documents such as Aadhaar, driving licence, LIC bond, or educational certificates.

• If the documents are available with the issuing authority, they will appear automatically.

• You can view, download, and use these documents whenever required.

• The app also allows you to add a nominee for access.

Currently, around 30 government departments are offering their services through DigiLocker, making it a one-stop solution for safe, secure, and hassle-free document storage.

https://www.digilocker.gov.in/

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digilocker.android

https://apps.apple.com/in/app/digilocker/id1320618078

Cyber Crime Alert: Beware of scams in the name of ‘Unclaimed Deposits’!

Cyber Crime Alert: Beware of scams in the name of ‘Unclaimed Deposits’!

Cybercriminals are now targeting people using a new trick — fake messages and links related to unclaimed deposits lying with banks and regulatory bodies. They are exploiting the RBI’s “Udgam” portal, which was launched to help users check and claim their unclaimed deposits.

These fraudsters send fake links and messages pretending to offer easy refunds of unclaimed amounts, luring people to click on them and share sensitive information — eventually draining their bank accounts.

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner C.V. Anand Sajjanar has issued a strong warning to citizens, urging everyone to be alert and cautious.

He advised users to:

• Visit only the official RBI website: https://udgam.rbi.org.in

• Ignore all messages or links claiming to be from the RBI or banks.

• Remember that RBI never asks for OTPs, passwords, or personal details.

• Never share such information with anyone.

• In case of any doubt, contact your bank branch directly.

If you have fallen victim to such a scam, immediately call 1930 or file a complaint on the official portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in.

💡 Stay alert, stay safe — don’t let cybercriminals cash in on your trust!

Cloudflare Status

Cloudflare System Status:

Cloudflare provides performance and security to website owners via its intelligent global network. 

This is the system status for the Cloudflare service, both edge network and dashboard/APIs for management.

https://www.cloudflarestatus.com/

Status information is also available through Cloudflare Status API here: 

https://www.cloudflarestatus.com/api