Cyber crime in India is on the rise, with Delhi standing out as a significant hub for these illicit activities. Each day, nearly 700 residents of the capital fall prey to various forms of cyber crimes, illustrating the urgent necessity for stronger digital security measures. This troubling trend reveals significant weaknesses in the existing cyber infrastructure and showcases the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals. The types of cyber crimes affecting Delhi are diverse and ever-evolving, encompassing phishing scams, identity theft, financial frauds, and hacking. These crimes result in significant financial losses, emotional distress, and diminished trust in digital platforms.
As technology continues to advance and integrate further into daily life, the tactics employed by cybercriminals have become more complex and harder to detect. Consequently, there is a pressing need for both individuals and organisations to enhance their awareness and adopt comprehensive cyber hygiene practices. This includes using strong, unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, staying informed about common cyber threats, and regularly updating software and systems. Only through a collective and informed effort can the escalating threat of cyber crime in Delhi be effectively mitigated.
According to the DCP in a conversation with PTI, the cyber helpline number 1930 receives an average of 55,000 to 60,000 calls each month, translating to approximately 1,700 calls daily. Out of these, 700 to 800 are fresh complaints filed every day. These figures, which pertain solely to Delhi, indicate a severe and widespread issue that is likely even more alarming on a national scale. The high volume of calls underscores the prevalence of cyber crimes and the need for enhanced security measures and public awareness to combat this growing threat effectively.
Mr. Tiwari recounted a case where a man was swindled out of a massive ₹22 crore by a scam that falsely promised to double his investment. This incident exemplifies the severe financial damage cyber criminals can inflict through deceptive schemes. Additionally, Mr. Tiwari mentioned that the helpline receives numerous calls related to sextortion, digital extortion, matrimonial site frauds, and scams involving fake work-from-home opportunities.
Mr. Tiwari, who holds an MBBS degree and previously served as a junior resident at the MCD-run Bara Hindu Rao Hospital, explained that scammers often use emails to deceive victims into believing they are under investigation for viewing child pornography. The emails threaten legal action to extort money from the victims. The police unit, dedicated to tackling such crimes, has successfully investigated numerous cases, leading to the arrest of 180 individuals involved in various cyber crimes. The sheer variety and complexity of these scams underline the urgent need for increased public awareness and robust cybersecurity measures. By educating the public and implementing strong digital security practices, authorities aim to curb the rising tide of cyber crimes and protect citizens from falling prey to these sophisticated schemes.
Hemant Tiwari (DCP) stresses on incorporating cyber safety into the school syllabus. As technology becomes an integral part of daily life, children are increasingly exposed to the internet and its potential risks. Educating students about cyber safety from a young age will help them navigate the online world responsibly and securely.
Teaching cyber safety in schools will equip students with the knowledge to recognize and avoid cyber threats such as phishing, identity theft, and online scams. They will learn the importance of strong passwords, privacy settings, and the dangers of sharing personal information online. Additionally, students will be educated about the ethical use of technology and the consequences of cyberbullying. By integrating cyber safety into the curriculum, schools can foster a generation of tech-savvy individuals who are aware of the potential dangers online and know how to protect themselves. This education will not only safeguard students but also contribute to creating a more secure digital environment for everyone.
Furthermore, parents and teachers can collaborate to reinforce these lessons at home, ensuring a comprehensive approach to cyber safety education. As cyber threats continue to evolve, equipping young minds with the tools and knowledge to stay safe online is a proactive step towards a safer digital future.
What should someone do if they’ve been scammed online?To assist with such incidents, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the RBI have established the 1930 helpline. This dedicated line offers prompt support and guidance for individuals who have fallen victim to cyber crimes, aiming to mitigate the impact and facilitate the recovery process.Promptly reporting the crime increases the likelihood of recovering the lost funds, as transactions can be halted within 24 hours. Immediate action is crucial in these situations to maximise the chances of retrieving the stolen money and preventing further financial loss. This initiative underscores the importance of quick response in combating cyber crimes effectively.
