The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): As the digital landscape expands in India, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has observed a consequential rise in cyber crimes. In its “Crime in India” report, the latest figures from 2022 present a concerning picture of the cyber threats facing the nation. Cyber crimes, being under the purview of ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India, are primarily tackled by state and Union Territories (UTs). However, acknowledging the complexity and cross-jurisdictional nature of cyber threats, the Central Government has been playing a pivotal role in supplementing and strengthening the efforts of state governments.
Central Government’s Initiatives:
1. Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): Established by the Ministry of Home Affairs, I4C stands as a testament to the government’s recognition of the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to combat cyber crimes. This center serves as a national nodal point for all cyber crime-related activities, enhancing the efficacy of law enforcement agencies across the country.
2. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: This portal is a key feature of I4C, designed to empower citizens to report cyber crimes with ease. It particularly focuses on crimes against women and children, reflecting the government’s commitment to vulnerable groups in the digital space. The mechanism ensures that each report is appropriately acted upon by the respective State/UT law enforcement agencies.
3. Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System: In response to the growing trend of financial cyber frauds, this system enables immediate reporting and action to prevent the siphoning of funds by fraudsters. Since its inception, it has been instrumental in saving substantial amounts of money, showcasing the government’s proactive stance in financial cyber security.
4. Blocking of SIM Cards and IMEIs: In a significant move to curb the misuse of mobile networks and devices in cyber crimes, the government has blocked thousands of SIM cards and IMEIs based on police reports, disrupting the communication channels often exploited by cybercriminals.
CERT-In’s Role:
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) plays a critical role in the country’s cyber defense strategy. It continuously monitors the digital space for potential threats and vulnerabilities, issuing timely alerts and advisories to both public and private entities. CERT-In’s collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for conducting special audits and promoting best security practices highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in combating cyber threats.
Awareness and Education Campaigns:
Recognizing that awareness and education are key in preventing cyber crimes, the government has launched various campaigns. These include:
– Dissemination of messages through SMS and social media platforms.
– Radio campaigns and collaboration with MyGov for publicity across multiple mediums.
– Organization of Cyber Safety and Security Awareness weeks in association with States/UTs.
– Publication of a Handbook for Adolescents/Students to educate the younger generation on cyber safety.
State/UT Wise Data on Cyber Frauds:
The annexure provided in the original release presents a detailed state/UT-wise breakdown of cyber fraud incidents. This data is crucial in understanding the geographical spread and intensity of cyber frauds across India, enabling targeted and region-specific interventions.
International Collaboration and Policy Frameworks:
In addition to national efforts, India has been engaging in international collaborations to enhance its cyber security posture. These collaborations involve sharing of best practices, joint exercises, and policy dialogues. Furthermore, India is actively working to align its cyber security frameworks with global standards, ensuring a robust defense mechanism that can withstand evolving cyber threats.
The Road Ahead:
The rising trend of cyber frauds calls for a dynamic and adaptive approach. The Indian government’s initiatives reflect a multi-dimensional strategy, combining law enforcement, technological advancements, public awareness, and international collaboration. The proactive measures taken, as detailed by the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Ajay Kumar Mishra, in his address to the Lok Sabha, underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding the digital ecosystem and its users.
The ongoing efforts to combat cyber frauds in India are not just about protecting financial assets or personal information; they are about preserving public trust in digital technologies and ensuring the nation’s secure and inclusive growth in the digital age. As India continues to make strides in the digital world, the concerted efforts of the government, law enforcement agencies, industry partners, and the public will be pivotal in shaping a resilient and
secure digital future.