What is Cybercrime?
Cybercrime refers to crimes committed using computers or the Internet. How these crimes are carried out includes unauthorized access, manipulation or theft of information, and activities such as the dissemination of harmful content or malicious software, including hacking and identity theft, phishing scams and online fraud. Any criminal act committed is a cyber crime.
Most of the cybercrime crimes are carried out by cybercriminals to make more profit, who do this cybercrime to make money by deceiving the public and the government by deactivating or modifying websites or making false statements.
In India, cyber crimes are governed by the Information Technology Act, 2000. Know some of the important sections mentioned in the Information Technology Act, Section 43 Unauthorized access to computer systems, Section 66 Computer related offences, Section 66C Identity theft, Section 66D Cheating by person and Section 66E Violation of privacy are the laws that punish cyber crimes.
Jurisdiction for cybercrime cases varies depending on the type of crime and the location of the crime. Generally, cyber crimes are reported to the local police station or the cyber cell of the concerned district or state. In more serious cases, investigations may be carried out by specialized agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or cyber crime units of state police.
It is important for individuals and organizations to be aware of cybercrimes, take necessary precautions to protect their data and personal information, and report suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
What is the motive for cybercrime?
The motives of cybercrime can vary, and are often driven by financial gain, personal vendettas, ideological differences, or the desire for power and control.
Here are some common motives for cybercrime :
1. Financial gain :
Many cybercriminals engage in activities aimed at making illegal money. These include stealing financial information, conducting online fraud, ransomware attacks, credit card fraud, or hacking into systems to obtain sensitive data for profit.
2. Personal vendettas :
Some cybercrimes are motivated by personal hatred or revenge. This can include hacking into someone’s social media accounts, spreading information that contains false information or embarrassing content, or making online threats.
3. Conceptual Differences :
Some cybercrimes are driven by ideological motivations. This includes, for example, hacking websites to express political or social dissent.
4. Espionage and State Sponsored Attacks :
Government and intelligence agencies engage in hacking to gather classified information, disrupt critical infrastructure, or wage cyberwarfare against other countries.
5. Intellectual Property Theft :
Cybercriminals can target companies or individuals to steal intellectual property, trade secrets, or proprietary information. This stolen information can be monetized.
6. Thrill and Challenge :
Some cybercriminals are motivated by hacking systems and networks. They may engage in cyber intrusions to demonstrate their skills or test a target’s security measures.
Understanding these objectives is important to create better cybersecurity measures and raise awareness of the risks and consequences of cybercrime.
How to avoid falling prey to cybercrime criminals?
While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of becoming a target and protect yourself online :
- Use strong, unique passwords :
Create strong and unique passwords for your online accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name or date of birth.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) :
Install two layers of security whenever possible. In addition to your password, add additional security with a second verification method, such as a fingerprint, SMS code, or authentication app.
- Update Software and Devices :
Update your computer’s operating systems with the latest security patches. Keep antivirus software up-to-date.
- Be aware of suspicious emails and links :
Be vigilant when opening emails or clicking on links, especially if they come from unknown sources or appear suspicious and avoid opening them to prevent your computer from falling under the control of a cybercriminal.
- Secure your Wi-Fi network :
Use a strong and unique password for your Wi-Fi network to prevent unauthorized access.
- Focus on social media sharing :
Limit the personal information you share on social media sites. Cybercriminals can use this information to target you for identity theft attempts.
- Use Safe Websites :
Look for “https://” at the beginning of website URLs, which indicates a secure connection. Avoid entering sensitive information on these non-encrypted websites.
- Back up your data regularly :
Regularly back up your important files to encrypted external drives or secure cloud storage services. It helps protect against ransomware attacks and data loss.
- Educate Yourself :
Stay informed about the latest cyber threats, scams and best practices for cyber security. Be aware of suspicious internet activity and act cautiously.
- Use reliable security software :
Install reputable antivirus and security software on your computer to detect and prevent malicious activity.
Remember that there is no solution to avoid cybercrime completely, but by implementing precautions and being vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
How to register a cybercrime complaint?
Cybercrime offenses are increasing in India, to register a cybercrime complaint, you can follow the steps mentioned below.
- Gather Evidence :
Cybercrime takes place over the Internet, and if the crime is committed through your mobile or computer, evidence of the crime is essential. Instantly take screenshots of criminal information on your mobile and computer. Compile all evidence related to the cybercrime, such as emails, messages or other digital evidence to support your complaint. Keep the originals of these documents whether they are on computer, mobile, website till the end of the case.
- File a Police Complaint :
Depending on the nature and severity of the cybercrime, you can file a complaint at your local police station or opt for an online complaint. An online complaint can be lodged at the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in/).
- Provide details of incident :
In your complaint, provide a detailed description of the incident, including all relevant information such as date, time, location and nature of the cybercrime. Clearly state the crime committed and provide all the evidence you have collected.
- File complaint with relevant laws :
Mention the relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, depending on the type of cyber crime. Punishment is given according to the nature of the offense under this Act. For example, in the case of hacking, see Section 66 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
- Get copy of FIR :
After registering the complaint, the police will start an investigation and register a First Information Report (FIR). Get a copy of the FIR after your registration.
- Co-operation with Police :
The cooperation of the petitioner is essential in cybercrime cases and throughout the investigation process, active cooperation with the police is crucial. Provide any additional information or evidence they require and cooperate with reports or interviews.
- Seek legal advice if required :
If you believe that the police are not taking appropriate action or the cybercrime is complex, it is advisable to seek legal advice from a cybercrime lawyer. They can guide you on the legal aspects of your complaint and represent you in legal proceedings if necessary.
Follow all the above steps Remember that timely reporting of cybercrimes without delay is essential for investigation and prosecution of cybercrime offences.