Need for Stronger Measures Against Cyber Fraudsters

Cybercrime cases are increasing rapidly in the country. While people are increasingly using the internet and technological services to realize the dream of Digital India, cybercriminals are exploiting this digital age for their illicit gains. The shocking and concerning fact is that educated people are becoming the primary victims of this fraud, and more troubling is that the government system appears completely ineffective and helpless in tackling these fraudsters.

In the first quarter of 2024, nearly 740,000 cybercrime complaints were received, and in 2023, cybercrime cases rose by 25% compared to 2022. Despite this, the government seems to have no concrete solution to arrest and punish these fraudsters. Most cyber fraud cases are related to online fraud, phishing, ransomware attacks, and credit card scams. In many instances, elderly people are targeted by fraudsters pretending to be their children who are living in different cities for studies or work.

Although the government runs awareness campaigns like 'Cyber Dost' and 'Cyber Safe India,' these initiatives have limited effectiveness. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of strict action against cybercriminals. Complaints are often investigated slowly or remain unresolved. This raises important questions: Are our cyber departments equipped to deal with increasingly sophisticated fraudsters? Do they have advanced forensic tools, trained experts, and are the existing laws stringent and clear enough to handle these crimes?

Given the increasing number of cases, it is essential that the government ensures rapid investigation and immediate action. Awareness campaigns alone will not resolve the issue. The government must take concrete and firm steps to set an example with strong actions against cybercriminals, making them think twice before robbing people of their hard-earned money. It is also crucial that the government recognizes that these fraudsters are not only targeting wealthy individuals but also many ordinary or poor people, whose stolen money was their only asset. Only when criminals fear the law will it be possible to control cybercrimes. The real dream of Digital India will only be achieved when every citizen feels digitally secure.