RESIDENTIAL AREA

It is important to inform the police about any suspicious happening or unclaimed object found in suspicious circumstances. Extend full cooperation to the police.

IN CASE POLICEMEN ARE CHASING A CRIMINAL...

Give way to the police immediately.

If possible, note down the number of the escaping vehicle and the identity of the occupants.

COMMERCIAL AREA

Do not talk loudly on the telephone (especially cellular phones) about money matters.

Wherever possible use CCTV and other electronic alarm systems.

Inform the Police about any suspicious happening or unclaimed object lying for a long time. Extend full co-operation to the police.

VEHICLE THEFT

Every year, nearly 36,000 vehicles, which amount to Rs.115 crore, are stolen in India out of these; only about 14,500 are traced, often in un-roadworthy conditions, with many components missing. These vehicles are stolen only because thieves are provided with the opportunity to steal them. Very often, cars are left improperly secured and unattended. It is only with the installation of anti - theft devices that a thief's attempts can be frustrated.

A secure parking facility (garage, petrol pump, etc.) at night also safe-guards against theft. If such parking facilities are not available, parking in a well-lit area is the next best alternative.

It is advisable to get the number of your car etched on your windscreens and window glasses. It helps the authorities to trace your car if stolen.

Simple do's and don’ts

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO...

Use securing devices like steering lock, clutch lock, brake lock, etc.

Double-check all doors, including the boot

If possible, install loud alarm systems in your car, so that thieves can be discouraged even if they manage to break into your car

Try and use detachable music systems and take them with you whenever you park the car for a long time, so that there is no temptation for thieves to make a quick steal when they see expensive items in parked cars Paint your car number on the front and rear end of the body, apart from the number plates. Ideally, have it etched on the windscreens and window glasses too. This prevents them from being misused by criminals using fake number plates

WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT DO...

Never leave the vehicle door unlocked, nor the windows partially open. Make sure that the quarter glasses are properly secured

Do not leave valuables inside the car, even if it is locked, as this will attract thieves

Do not overdo extra fittings, as these tempt prospective thieves

Never leave the key dangling in the ignition

IN CASE YOUR CAR IS STOLEN...

Report the theft to the nearest police station

Inform your insurance company

BOMBS THREATS & PHYSICAL SECURITY MEASURES

Responding to a Bomb-Threat

All your phones must have caller ID system. Having a facility for automatic recording of calls is not a bad idea. Probability of being caught is the biggest deterrent for any prankster. Let your employees/workers/students know that you have state-of-art machines fitted at your central phone consol. It helps Treat all threat calls as important. Just because statistics suggest that most of the bomb-threats are hoax, it does give us any room for complacency. Instruct all personnel, especially those at the telephone switchboard, in what to do if a bomb-threat is received. A calm response to the bomb threat caller could result in obtaining additional information. This is especially true if the caller is a genuine one and wishes to avoid injuries or deaths. If told that the building is occupied or cannot be evacuated in time, the caller may be willing to give more specific information on the bomb's location, components, or method of initiation.

The bomb threat caller is the best source of information about the bomb. When a bomb threat is called in:

Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask him/her to repeat the message. Record every word spoken by the person.

If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ask him/her for this information.

Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb could result in death or serious injury to many innocent people.

Pay particular attention to background noises, such as motors running, music playing, and any other noise which may give a clue as to the location of the caller.

Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents, and speech impediments. Immediately after the caller hangs up, report the threat to the person designated by management to receive such information

Report the information immediately to the police. Never think that you will be called an alarmist. Remember – every call is true, unless otherwise proven.

Remain available. Police will want to interview you.

When a written threat is received, save all materials, including any envelope or container. Once the message is recognized as a bomb threat, further unnecessary handling should be avoided. Every possible effort must be made to retain evidence such as fingerprints, handwriting or typewriting, paper, and postal marks. These will prove essential in tracing the threat and identifying the writer.

Summary This pamphlet serves only as a guide and is not intended to be a comprehensive manual for securing your establishment or preparing you from any bomb-threat. There can be various different scenarios and situations. In all such cases, rule of thumb is: Remain calm and use your common sense. Police is always there to help you. Be prepared. Be safe.

BANKING PRECAUTIONS

Never introduce an unknown person for the purpose of opening an account in your Bank.

Never encash cheques / drafts of an unknown person through your account

Do not keep your account in-operative for a long time

To avoid theft in postal transit or courier services and subsequent cheating, keep a track on the cheques / drafts / pay orders sent through post and courier services

As far as possible, bank transactions should be handled personally

Take care of your cheque books. Do not keep signed cheques in the drawer or any place where outsiders have an easy access

All bank transactions should be counter checked to ensure that deposited cheques have been realized

Monthly statements of your bank account should be invariably checked

At the time of withdrawal of cash, the account holder must physically check the cash. Never hand over the cash to a third person for counting

TO AVOID BOUNCING OF CHEQUES

Insist for D.D. or Pay Orders if you are dealing with an unknown party

Postdated cheques should be avoided

If a cheque bounces, you should give a notice to the person within 15 days of such intimation. If you do not receive a reply, file a complaint in the court under section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1981, where effective remedies are available to the public. All cases of bounced cheques may not be offences of cheating under the Indian Penal Code

FRAUD MONEY SCHEMES

WHAT THEY SAY

Double your money in two months or less

Post dated cheques as a guarantee for the same

Claim they do it by investing in some wonder projects or plantations

Huge sums of money by being a part of the gift chain i.e. you gift a certain amount of money to two people, then find two people who will enter the chain by gifting you the sum. They in turn will get two more subscribers, and so on

As the scheme is run by a registered company, it is absolutely safe

REALITY

All schemes offering high returns of double money within two months or such short spans have no legal sanction, nor they are reliable

Postdated cheques is not a guaranteed payment device, as they could bounce when you finally present them

There are no projects, especially agriculture based, which can give returns in less than a year. In fact, tree plantations take at least 10 years to mature

Gift schemes and chains are an offence under the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act of 1978

Even registered companies are not allowed to promote and run any such schemes

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

IF FIRING OCCURS WHILE YOU ARE AT WORK OR WALKING ON A STREET...

Lie down onto the ground immediately.

Do not show any unwanted curiosity. The criminal may feel threatened and shoot at you.

When possible, move to a safer place, slowly, without drawing attention to yourself. Take cover behind solid objects like a car or a wall.

If you can see the criminals from your hiding place, try to note and memorize their distinguishing features.

If you are out of sight of the criminals, call up 100 and inform the Police. If you are within earshot, try to remember their conversation.

Do not disturb the scene of the crime.

IN CASE POLICEMEN ARE CHASING A CRIMINAL...

Give way to the police immediately

If possible, note down the number of the escaping vehicle and the identity of the occupants

Remember the entry and exit routes of the criminals

DO'S AND DON'TS FOR YOU:

Employ a servant after verifying his real name, native address with the help of the nearest Police Station.

Never discuss financial matters in front of your servant

It is always safe to deposit your valuables in safe deposit vault of any Bank

Treat your servant in a humane way

Do not allow any of the relatives or friends of your servant to visit your house. If at all he has any frequent visitor, get his antecedents checked from police and try to keep the number of such persons.

Make your neighbor know of you being staying alone. The Housing Society also needs to know this.

Use of modern security gadgets is always advantageous. Door alarm, electronic eye bell etc. is available in market. Consult the professionals in this regard

Install a peephole in your front door and always check the identification of strangers before you let them inside your home.

Never leave spare keys in open or in the conventional hiding places

Verify the identity of any repairmen. Use the telephone number listed in the phone book, not the one suggested by them

Inform your society about the unacquainted visitors, so that their identity could be checked at the very gate of the society

A well-designed electronic alarm system attached to the office of your Housing. Society or to the watchman’s cabin would be advisable so as to send alarm signals to all simultaneously

When you admit a workman or a salesman, do not leave him alone at any time

CHILDREN & WOMEN SAFETY

Say “NO” :-

No one has the right to tease you or sexually harass you. No one has the right to make you uncomfortable, whether you are at home or on the streets, whether in school, college or in a social gathering.

No one has the right to beat you, torture you physically or mentally, or force use on you in any way. No matter what your relationship is with this person.

REMEMBER :-

Violence against you is not your fault. Violence is not anyone’s right. Don’t hesitate; don’t be afraid to call for help.

Youth & Drugs

"How do I know if my child is abusing drugs or alcohol"

If you find drugs or items such as smoking pipes, it is a strong indication that your child is using or experimenting with drugs. Behaviour is another indicator.

Watch for :-

• Abrupt mood swings or attitude changes.
• Sudden decline in attendance or performance at work or school.
• Sudden resistance to discipline at home or school.
• Poor relationship with family and friends.
• Unusual temper tantrums.
• Borrowing money from friends and relatives.
• Stealing from home, school or work.
• Increased secrecy about actions or possessions.
• Hanging out with new group of friends (especially ones who use drugs).
• Abrupt mood swings or attitude changes.
• Sudden decline in attendance or performance at work or school.
• Sudden resistance to discipline at home or school.
• Poor relationship with family and friends.
• Unusual temper tantrums.
• Borrowing money from friends and relatives.
• Stealing from home, school or work.
• Increased secrecy about actions or possessions.
• Hanging out with new group of friends (especially ones who use drugs).

These behaviors may indicate drug use but they may also indicate normal growing pains. The best way to know for sure is to observe your child, get to know his or her friends, but most importantly, TALK. Communication is essential for your child's growth and safety.

If you know that your child is taking drugs, take action and do not ignore the problem. Explain the harmful effects of drugs, including the long-term effects tone’s physical, social and mental well-being.

CONSUMER FRAUD

It's not always easy to spot con artists. They're smart, extremely persuasive, and aggressive. They invade your home by telephone and mail, advertise in well-known newspapers and magazines, and come to your door..

Most people think they're too smart to fall for a scam. But con artists rob all kinds of people - from investment counselors and doctors to teenagers and elderly widows - of crores of rupees every year.

Just remember... if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

If Someone Rips You Off

• Report to the police, your city or state consumer protection office, or a consumer advocacy group.
• Don't feel foolish. Reporting is vital. Very few frauds are reported, which leaves the con artists free to rob other people of their money - and their trust.

Buying online

Tips to stop credit card fraud when buying online:

• Make sure your web-browser is set to the highest level of security notification and monitoring. These options are not always automatically activated when your computer is set-up, so check your manual or the "Help" option.
• Check whether you are using a recent version of your web-browser as they often include better security features - up-to-date versions can be downloaded free from the Microsoft or Netscape websites.
• Before purchasing from a website, make a record of the retailer's contact details, including the street address and landline phone number. If these details are not available on the website, consider going elsewhere to buy, do not rely on the e-mail address alone.
• Do not enter personal details unless the security icon is displayed(this is a small padlock that normally appears at the bottom of your browser when you begin your transaction over the Internet). You can click on the padlock to see if the retailer has an encryption certificate. This should explain the type and extent of security and encryption it uses. Only use companies that have an encryption certificate and use secure transaction technology. The address of the page where you enter personal details should also start with https://.
• If you have any queries or concerns, telephone the company before giving them your card details to reassure yourself that it is legitimate.
• Print out your order and consider keeping copies of the retailer's terms and conditions and returns policy. Be aware that there may well be additional charges such as postage and taxes. When buying from overseas always err on the side of caution and remember that it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise.
• Check statements from your bank or card issuer carefully as soon as you receive them. Raise any discrepancies with the retailer concerned in the first instance. If you find any transaction on your statement that you are certain you did not make, contact your card issuer immediately.
• Ensure that you are fully aware of any payment commitments you are entering into, including whether you are instructing a single payment or a series of payments.
• Never disclose your card's PIN number to anyone, including people claiming to be from your bank or the police, and never write it down or send it over the Internet.
• If you have any doubts about using your card, find another method of payment.

Be a Wise Consumer

• Don't buy health products or treatments that include: a promise for a quick and dramatic cure. Quackery can delay an ill person from getting timely treatment.
• Never give a caller your credit card, phone card, or bank account number over the phone.
• Investigate before you invest. Never make an investment with a stranger over the phone. Beware of promises that include the terms "get rich quick," or "a once in a lifetime opportunity."
• Look closely at offers that come in the mail. Con artists often use official-looking forms and bold graphics to lure victims. If you receive items in the mail that you did not order, you are under no obligation to pay for them - throw them out, or return them.
• Be suspicious of ads that promise quick cash working from your home. After you have paid for the supplies or a how-to book to get started, you often find there's no market for the product and there's no way to get your money back.
• Beware of cheap home repair work that would otherwise be expensive, regardless of the reason given. The con artist may just do part of the work, use shoddy materials and untrained workers, or simply take your deposit and never return.

Home Security

Burglary Prevention Advice

Burglary, on the whole, is an opportunist crime. A burglar will select his target because it offers him the best opportunity to carry out his crime undetected and with the fewest number of obstacles in his way. A building that presents itself as unoccupied and insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one that is properly secured.

If you take the precautions outlined below, a thief will quickly see what he is up against and probably look for an easier target. Be aware of the need to protect your home and yourself at all times

• Install good quality locks
• Consider installing an intruder alarm system.
• Display your house number clearly to enable emergency vehicles to find your house easily.
• Never leave notes which a thief could read (to family, friends, etc).
• Don't leave keys in "hiding places" around the house for a thief to find. Leave spare keys with a trusted friend.
• Keep valuable documents in a bank, with a lawyer, etc.
• Don't leave your house keys with your car keys when having your vehicle serviced or when using a parking station.
• Never keep large sums of cash or easily stolen valuables, such as jewelry, unprotected in your home. Keep valuables you don't often use in a bank safe deposit box.
• Lock all the doors and windows whenever you leave the house, even if it is just to go into the backyard or to the nearby shop.

Don't invite the burglar into your home. Remove temptation. Make it look as though your house is occupied.

Before You Go On A Vacation

• Tell your neighbour when and where you are going.
• Cancel mail, newspaper, milk etc.
• Give your neighbour a phone number
• Turn telephone sound down.
• Lock all doors, close all windows.
• Install outside lights and keep them on at night.
• Have a neighbour or friend pop round to clear your letterbox.

Remember: Remove the Opportunity - Prevent the Burglary.

Bogus Callers

Not all burglars break into homes - some will try to trick or con their way in. They are known as bogus callers and will pretend to be on official business from respectable concerns such as the Utility Companies - Gas, Electricity and so on. They may claim to be tradesmen or workmen calling to carry out urgent repairs.

Bogus callers succeed because they sound believable, so don't be fooled. Make sure in your own mind that they are who they claim to be by following these simple steps:

• Think before you open the door - use the door keyhole or look out of the window to see if you recognize them
• Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry some sort of identification. Check this carefully. If you are unsure, telephone the company the caller claims to represent.
• Beware of callers who attempt to distract you by claiming that they have seen something untoward in your rear garden or somewhere which may encourage you to leave your house - they may have an accomplice awaiting this distraction.
• If you are not convinced of the identity of the caller, don't let them in. Ask the caller to come back later and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbor to be present on their return or ask the caller to contact this person.
• What if someone asks to use your phone? Say no, and send them to the nearest phone booth. Or offer to make the call for them, locking them outside your home.
• When you admit a repairman or salesman, do not leave him alone for even a few minutes.
• If you get a 'wrong number' phone call, don't chat. Just say 'wrong number' and hang up quickly. Never give your name and address.

Treat every stranger with caution. If you are still worried, dial 100 for the police.

Computer and Internet-Related Crime

There are no precise, reliable statistics on the amount of computer crime and the economic loss to victims, partly because many of these crimes are apparently not detected by victims, many of these crimes are never reported to authorities, and partly because the losses are often difficult to calculate.

Internet fraud takes many forms. The Internet's promise of substantial consumer benefits is coupled with the potential for fraud and deception. Fraud operators are opportunists who are among the first to appreciate the potential of a new technology. There is nothing new about Internet fraud, however, the size and potential market, relative ease, low cost, and speed with which a scam can be perpetrated has increased tremendously.

Nevertheless, in this section we have posted some Tips for Avoiding Computer Crime, which includes suggestions for increasing the security and reliability of personal computers, as well as protection against cyber crime.

Causes of Computer Crime

• Sharing Identification numbers and passwords
• Unauthorised access from remote location (hacking)
• Unauthorised access by non-authorised employee
• Security system by-passed
• Poor physical security
• Poor system security
• Abuse of legitimate access
• Viruses etc or other willful damage by disgruntled employee or competitor
• Appropriate computer security changes not done when employees with access leave or are transfered.
• Data files and listings not held under proper security

Recommended Prevention Measures

• Develop and Implement appropriate system failure procedures
• Shred computer listings after use
• Do not share Identification numbers and passwords
• Change passwords regularly
• Regularly monitor usage of dial-up facilities.
• Implement a system of controlling employees with access to data.
• Physical security of equipment and diskettes.

Hacking, Computerized Fraud And Other Computer Crimes

A "hacker" is a dedicated programming expert who believes in sharing his expertise and experiences with other hackers. A hacker does not believe in vandalizing or maliciously destroying data, or in stealing data of any kind. He may find your credit card number stored there from buying online, or use the information gleaned from your computer to use your ISP account for illegal activity, like distributing child pornography

How can I stop hackers from gaining access to my computer?

• Only download or accept files from reliable sources.
• Use a firewall to block unauthorized access to your computer.
• Install a good virus scanner program and update virus information files at least weekly
• Do not keep passwords, bank or financial account numbers, or other personal and confidential information on your computer's hard drive. Store this type of information on removable disks (floppies or zip disks).

The Hijack

It is a relatively new form of fraud unique to the Internet. Consumers are prompted to download a purported "viewer program" to see computer images for free. Once downloaded, the consumer's computer is "hijacked" by the viewer program, which turns off the consumer's modem speakers, disconnects the computer from the local Internet provider, dials an international number and connects the consumer to a remote site. The expensive international costs are charged to the consumer's telephone bill until the telephone is turned off.

Child Safety

• Place the computer in a centrally located area in your home - not in a child's bedroom. This prevents "secret" communications or access and also allows all members of the family to use it.
• Talk to your children about the Internet. Explain that it is an excellent source of information, but some sites are inappropriate and they are expected to stay away from these sites.
• Establish time frames for Internet access. This will encourage your children to obtain information in a timely manner and discourage aimless wandering.
• Keep an open line of communication with your children.
• Discuss their Internet experiences and guide them to sites that are age-appropriate.
• Consider using software that can block or filter Internet sites or certain words that may indicate inappropriate sites.
• In a chat room never give out any personal information including: name, address, city, state, school attended, telephone number, family names or other personal family information.
• Never respond to someone who wants to meet in person or send photographs. Instruct your children to exit the chat room and notify you immediately if this happens.
• Most importantly, if your child visits a particular chat room, spend at least five or ten minutes monitoring the conversation to see if it is appropriate.
• Consider purchasing computer software products that can help you monitor and control your child's access to the Internet.
• Monitor your children's Internet activity by checking all of the sites visited.

Viruses

Simply stated, a virus, Trojan or worm is a small program written to cause harm to one or more computers or networks. A Virus, Worm or Trojan can also be designed to retrieve information from your computer to be delivered to an attacker for future use. For example credit card information, passwords, and security access codes.

If You Have Any Of The Following Symptoms, Your Computer May Be Infected

• Does your computer suddenly take longer to start up?
• Do program sizes keep changing?
• Do you keep running out of disk space?
• Do you keep getting 32 bit error messages?
• Your computer won't boot up.
• File names are strange or keep changing.
• You can't access your hard drive without booting from a floppy startup disk.
• Your computers CMOS settings keep changing - and you have a new CMOS battery.
• Your computer is sending out emails that you didn't write.
• Strange unexplained things are happening with your computer; e.g. the CD ROM opens and closes when no one is using the computer.
• Monitor your children's Internet activity by checking all of the sites visited.

How can I protect my computer against future infections?

Install and configure a good anti-virus program on your computer. Keep the virus definition files up to date. Anti-virus software programs can be configured to automatically check for new dat files (virus definitions) and your anti-virus program should be setup to do this at least weekly. Your anti-virus program should be configured to scan email, all files and folders, boot sectors and all removable disks (floppy and zip disks). If you receive an attachment or file via email, IRC, ICQ or removable disk, that attachment should be scanned for viruses before opening it.

Tips to keep you safe online

• Never send money to an unsolicited e-mail or a posting you spotted on the Web.
• Never agree to a meeting with someone who has posted a fabulous offer. In-person meetings give the con artist a chance to turn on high-pressure sales tactics or even rob you.
• If you are setting up an online identity for e-mail, be very vague. Do not give out personal information in a profile.
• Contact your ISP or local law enforcement if you receive suspicious or threatening e-mail.
• Be alert for any responses to e-mail that you don't believe you have sent.
• Be alert to e-mail bearing a return address you recognize, but with content that does not match the personality of the sender.
• Look carefully at message headers for discrepancies between sender and provider.
• Acquire and use encryption software if you send e-mail containing confidential or sensitive information.
• Web sites whose purposes are to commit fraud appear and disappear quickly, making it difficult for them to be tracked. If you find a suspicious Web site, print the screen and any correspondence. Present this information when filing a complaint with your ISP or Kolkata Police.

Vehicle Crime

Buying A Used Car

• Always ask to see proof of the seller's identity and address - an official letter or driving licence, for example.
• Make sure the car's Vehicle Identification Number (chassis number) matches that on the registration document.
• Never let the seller bring the car to you, as you may need to confirm their address details.
• Never buy a car without the registration document.
• Check the car's history and second-hand status.
• If in doubt, ask some reputable organization to inspect the car before agreeing to buy. You may also get in touch with the Detective Department and ask for details of the car.

Vehicle Verification Form

Common Car Sense

• Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough petrol to get where you're going and back.
• Always roll up the windows and lock car doors, even if you're coming right back. Check inside and out before getting in.
• Avoid parking in isolated areas. Be especially alert in parking lots and underground parking garages. If possible, always park in busy, well-lit area.
• If you think someone is following you, don't head home. Drive to the nearest police or fire station, or other open business to get help.
• Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike.
• Never leave the car keys in the car, even for a second. Make sure they are kept in a secure place at home and at work.
• Never leave cash, credit cards, chequebook, mobile phones, or valuables in the car.
• Install a good quality alarm system in your car or motor cycle.

Personal Safety

Basic Street Sense

• Wherever you are - on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, driving, waiting for a bus or subway - stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.
• Send the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you're going.
• Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
• Know the neighborhoods where you live and work. Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, or stores that are open late.
• Look confident. Walk with your head up, as if you know where you are going. Keep your hands free - don't walk about with them in your pockets.
• Keep to well-used roads. Don't use alleyways or short cuts.
• Think ahead and plan your journey, avoiding deserted areas
• In the dark, always stick to well-lit areas.
• If you think you are being followed, cross the road.
• If you start to be frightened, try not to panic. Always try to think around situations.

Public Transport

• Use well-lighted, busy stops.
• If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Look for help around you.
• Watch who gets off with you. If you feel uneasy, walk directly to a place where there are other people.

Travel Tips

• It is always worth letting someone know where you are going, the route you intend to take and when you expect to return. Plan your journeys - work out how to get there and back.
• Put aside enough money for the return fare.
• If you lose your fare money or ticket, speak to the driver/guard/ticket officer and explain. Carry some identification on you to prove that you are genuine.
• Never be tempted to walk home alone, especially if it's dark or you are unsure of the area.

If Someone Tries To Rob You

• Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims.

Child Safety

Article 19(1) of the UN CRC require States to- “Take all appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect the child from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse, while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s) or any other person who has the care of the child.”

Types of Abuses

• Physical
• Emotional
• Sexual
• Neglect
• Online Exploitation Of Child

PHYSICAL ABUSE

Causing physical harm to children by hitting, kicking, scratching, pinching, biting, pulling the hair, boxing ears, smacking, slapping, spanking or with any implement (cane, stick, shoe, chalk, dusters, belt, whip, giving electric shock etc);

EMOTIONAL ABUSE

• It may involve causing children frequently to feel frightened or in danger, for example by witnessing domestic abuse within the home or being bullied, or the exploitation or corruption of children.
• Sarcastic remarks, scolding using humiliating adjectives, intimidation, derogatory remarks, ridiculing or shaming the child.

SEXUAL ABUSE

• Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening.
• The activities may involve physical contact, including penetrative or non-penetrative acts.
• They may include non-contact activities, such as involving children in looking at pornographic material or watching sexual activities, or encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways.

NEGLECT

Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s health or development.

• It may involve a parent or carer failing to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failure to protect a child from physical harm or danger, or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.
• It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to a child’s basic emotional needs.
• Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance misuse

ONLINE EXPLOITATION

Online abuse is any type of abuse that happens on the web, whether through social networks, playing online games or using mobile phones. Children and young people may experience cyber bullying, grooming, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or emotional abuse.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PHYSICAL OF PHYSICAL ABUSE

• Unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, black eyes
• Fading bruises or other noticeable marks
• Child seems frightened of parents and protests or cries when it is time to go home
• Shrinks at the approach of adults
• Reports injury by a parent or another adult caregiver
• Abusing animals or pets

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF EMOTIONAL EMOTIONAL ABUSE

• Behavior extremes, such as being overly compliant or demanding, extremely passive or aggressive, etc.
• Delayed in physical or emotional development
• Behaves inappropriately adult (parents other children) or infantile
• Has attempted suicide
• Reports lack of attachment to parents/caregivers

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

• Difficulty in walking or sitting
• Refusing to change for gym or to participate in physical activities
• Reporting of nightmares or bedwetting
• Sudden change in appetite
• Bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual sexual knowledge or behavior
• Pregnant or afflicted by venereal disease

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF NEGLECT

• Begs for or steals food, money, or other items
• Lacks medical or dental care, glasses, or immunizations
• Is often dirty and/or has severe body odour
• Lacks sufficient clothing for the weather
• Intake of alcohol or drugs
• States that there is no one at home to provide care

LEGAL PROVISIONS

• Article 37(a) of UN CRC requires the State parties to ensure that “no child shall be subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
• Article 39(e) of the Constitution of India, directs the State to work progressively to ensure that “…. The tender age of children are not abused.” •Article 39(f) “the chidren are given opportunities and facilities to develop in a healthy manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity and that childhood and youth are protected against exploitation and against moral and material abandonment.”
• Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection Act) 2014
• Child Marriage Act, 2006
• Right to Education
• POCSO Act 2012
• NCPCR

POCSO Act 2012

Section 19,21:- mandatory to report, Punishment for failure to report or record a case Any person who fails to report the commission of an offence under sub section (1) of section 20 fails to record such offence under sub section (2)shall be punished with imprisonment may extend to six months or with fine or with both.

Juvenile Justice Act

Section 32:- Under this section it is mandatory to report regarding child found separated from guardian. Section 34:- Any person who has committed an offence under the preview of section 32 shall be liable for punishment up-to six months or fine up-to Rs10,000/- or both.

BEYOND REPORTING

• Reporting is just one element of proper response to child abuse and child sexual abuse. Your reaction is very important; it is often difficult for a child to talk about abuse.
• When a child tells you he/she has been abused:
• Choose your words carefully—don’t be judgmental about the child or the alleged abuser
• Do not disbelieve the child or appear shocked/surprised
• Listen and let the child tell his/her own story
• Be calm—your reactions can confuse or scare the child
• Assure the child that you believe what he/she says

Find out what the child wants and be honest about what you can do – the child may want you to promise that you won’t tell others – tell the truth and do not make promises

• Assess whether the child is in immediate danger
• Let the child know his/her feelings are okay
• Assure the child that you care and that it’s not his/her fault
• Tell the child that you’re glad he/she told you and that you will get help

“We owe our children-the most vulnerable citizen in any society –a life free from violence and fear” Nelson Mandela

CHILDREN SAFETY

• Never run errands for strangers, even for money.
• Never accept candy money or gifts from a stranger, or an invitation to a movie, etc.
• Never get in to a car with a stranger for any reason.
• Never Hitch-Hike.
• If a stranger attempts to coax you into a car, yell and run, then write down the license number from a safe distance, or scratch it in the dirt. Then tell your parents teacher or a policemen.
• If a friend gets in to a car with a stranger, even if you have warned him not to, write down the license number and tell a policeman, your parents or teacher right away.
• Make sure that your parents always know you are and who you are with.
• When collecting for charities, always travel in groups of two or more, and never go inside a stranger’s house.
• Teach your children their full names, address and telephone No.
• Tell them never to admit to being home alone on the phone or to someone at the door.
• Instruct children to look out for each other and tell you when something unusual or suspicious happens.
• Report suspicious individuals or vehicles lurking in areas where children play to the police.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to provide security for your children if any threat or emergency arise while you are away from home. Offer to do same for them.
• Every child should know that police are friends and be able to recognize the uniform and know that a policeman will be receptive if the child is lost or frightened.
• Children should be encouraged to play with friends and never in isolated areas or vacant buildings.
• Parents should always know where their children are.
• Parents should ensure that baby-sitters are known and can be trusted.

HOME SAFETY

• Fix grills on windows and glass paneled doors.
• Don't allow any stranger to enter your house, when you are alone without finding out his identity.
• Beware of persons coming to your house under the pretext of repairing/selling
• Keep side doors pad locked and main door bolted.
• Use slam-shut locks instead of pad locks. Install magic eye and safety chains on doors.
• Look through the magic eye and ensure the door chain is secure before opening the door to a stranger.
• Leave a light switched on when you go out of town. Inform your neighbours about your absence from your home for a long or short period.
• Insure all valuable properties like VCR, TV etc.
• Mark valuables with an identification number like your Ration Card, Passport or
• Install an alarm system and learn how to use it. Monitor your alarm system and arrange for guard response. Stow away ladders and stools.
• Make your home appear lived in. Don't keep huge amount of cash and ornaments in the house. Use bank lockers.
• Don't sleep near an open window during the night.
• Don't disturb the scene, if you notice theft in your house, wait for the arrival of police otherwise it will lead to tampering of evidence like fingerprints, footprints etc.
• things, conducting meter readings etc.
• Don't wear heavy ornaments while travelling alone.
• Don't open your bag-containing valuable like cash and ornaments, while travelling in public places.
• Don't go alone with cash and jewelry during the nighttime.
• Do not record a message on answering machine telling people you are on holiday or away.

STEPS FOR PERSONAL SAFETY

• Always stop and think about the risk.
• Always identify a visitor before opening the door.
• Never allow young children to open the door to visitors.
• Always ask representatives to provide identification.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Walk in busy well lit roads, towards traffic.

HOW TO PREVENT BAG SNATCHING WHILE TRAVELLING

• Carry your purse close to your body and slightly to the front.
• Your purse should be closed and fastened at all times. Do not leave it on a counter.
• Do not carry your keys, cheque book or credit-cards in your bag. Carry them in a jacket or other pocket on your person.
• Do not carry more money than necessary.
• If someone attempts to take your bag, give it up rather than risk personal injury.

BEWARE OF UNVERIFIED SERVANTS IN YOUR HOUSE

• Get your domestic help's antecedents verified.
• Give his/her photograph as well as address to the nearest Police Station for verification.
• Get his/her background verified from previous employer.
• Avoid giving access to his relatives and friends.
• Avoid displaying jewelry and valuables in the house.

PREVENT VEHICLE THEFTS

• Don’t keep vehicles in your house compound without locking.
• Two wheelers should be kept in the safe places after tying with a chain and lock.
• When you park your vehicle in the parking area, ask somebody to keep an eye over it.
• Never leave the vehicle door unlocked nor the windows partially open.
• Make sure that quarter glasses are properly secured.
• Never leave the key dangling in the ignition.
• Double-check all doors (including the boot) to ensure that they are properly secured.
• Etch registration number of your car on the rear & front window screens and windowpanes. Do not leave valuables in your car even if it is locked.
• Cut down on extra fittings, as these tempt prospective thieves.
• Install a car alarm.
• Never leave important documents in the glove box or boot.
• Never identify your key ring with your name.
• Do not offer a lift to anyone you do not know.
• If someone needs assistance, stop some distance away and communicate through locked doors and partially opened window.
• In case of theft, immediately inform nearest police station, dial 100