Source: Indian Express
According to government data, there has been a significant increase in cybercrime events in India, with scammers defrauding victims of Rs. 33,165 crores over the previous four years, including Rs. 22,812 crores in 2024. Several Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have been designated as hotspots for cybercrime.
According to data gathered by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ National Cyber Reporting Platform, scammers defrauded people out of Rs. 551 crores in 2021, Rs. 2,306 crores in 2022, and Rs. 7,496 crores in 2023.
Deoghar, Jharkhand; Deeg, Alwar, Jaipur, and Jodhpur, Rajasthan; Nuh, Haryana; Mathura and Gautam Buddha Nagar, Uttar Pradesh; Kolkata, West Bengal; Surat, Gujarat; Nalanda and Nawada, Bihar; Bengaluru urban, Karnataka; and Kozhikode, Kerala, have all been named as domestic hotspots.
The e-FIR system is being developed to give victims of cyber fraud who lost at least Rs. 10 lakh a hassle-free system.
Cybercrime refers to criminal activities involving computers, networks, or digital devices. These crimes can range from financial frauds to national security threats.
Types:
1.Phishing-Fraudulent emails to steal sensitive data
2.Identity theft-stealing personal information for fraud
3.Cyberstalking-online harassment or threats
4.Online scams-fake job offers, lottery frauds, etc
5.Ransomware attacks-malware encrypting user data for ransom.
Legal frameworks in India:
1.Information Technology act, 2000
2.Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
Model Question:
Q: Cybercrime is emerging as a major threat to India’s security and economic growth. Discuss the major challenges in tackling cybercrimes in India and suggest a way forward. (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer:
With rapid digitalization, cybercrime has become a significant challenge affecting individuals, businesses, and national security. India, with its growing digital economy and increasing internet users, is highly vulnerable to cyber threats such as hacking, identity theft, data breaches, and cyber terrorism.
Major Challenges in Tackling Cybercrime in India:
- Inadequate Cybersecurity Infrastructure – India lacks a strong cybersecurity framework, especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
- Weak Legal Framework – The IT Act, 2000 is outdated and lacks stringent provisions for new-age cybercrimes like deepfake frauds and crypto-based crimes.
- Jurisdictional Issues – Cybercrimes often have an international dimension, making law enforcement difficult.
- Low Awareness Among Citizens – Many people are unaware of cyber threats like phishing, ransomware, and online scams.
- Shortage of Skilled Cybersecurity Professionals – India has a shortage of experts trained in ethical hacking, cyber forensics, and incident response.
- Rising Cyber Terrorism & Misinformation – Social media is being used for radicalization, fake news, and election manipulation.
Way Forward:
- Strengthen Cyber Laws – Amend the IT Act, 2000 to cover new-age cyber threats.
- Enhance Cybersecurity Infrastructure – Invest in AI-based threat detection and blockchain security.
- Capacity Building – Train law enforcement in cyber forensics and digital investigations.
- Public Awareness Campaigns – Promote cybersecurity awareness through initiatives like Cyber Surakshit Bharat.
- International Cooperation – Join global efforts like the Budapest Convention to tackle transnational cybercrimes.
As India moves towards a $5 trillion digital economy, cyber threats must be addressed with strong policies, advanced technology, and public participation. A multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, private sector, and citizens is essential to secure India’s cyberspace.
