Subject: Internal Security

The rising menace of cybercrime has emerged as a significant threat to national security and individual privacy in the digital age, with India witnessing over 86,000 social media-related complaints in early 2024 alone, encompassing platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram.

Types of Cybercrimes

1. Financial Cybercrimes:

• Online Banking Frauds: Unauthorized access to bank accounts and digital wallets through phishing and malware.
• Investment Scams: Fraudulent schemes on platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp (e.g., Six FIRs registered in Mysuru in early 2025).
• Identity Theft: Stealing personal information for financial gain.

2. Social Media-related Crimes:

• Cyberstalking and Harassment: Online harassment through social media platforms.
• Data Breach: Unauthorized access to personal information and social media accounts.
• Cyberbullying: Targeting individuals through digital platforms.

3. Infrastructure Attacks:

• Ransomware Attacks: Targeting critical infrastructure and demanding ransom.
• DDoS Attacks: Disrupting services by overwhelming systems.
• Corporate Espionage: Stealing sensitive business information.

Measures to Combat Cybercrime

1. Legal Framework:

• Strengthening the Information Technology Act, 2000 with regular amendments.
• Implementation of e-FIR system for streamlined complaint filing.
• Enhanced penalties for cybercrime offenders.

2. Institutional Mechanisms:

• Increased funding for CERT-In (₹255 crore in 2025).
• Implementation of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (₹900 crore allocation).
• Establishment of dedicated cybercrime units in police departments.

3. Technical Measures:

• Regular security audits of critical infrastructure.
• Implementation of advanced threat detection systems.
• Development of indigenous cybersecurity solutions.

4. Capacity Building:

• Training law enforcement personnel in cybercrime investigation.
• Public awareness campaigns about cyber threats.
• Collaboration with international agencies for knowledge sharing.

The comprehensive approach to tackling cybercrime requires a multi-stakeholder effort involving government agencies, private sector, and citizens. The increased budget allocation of ₹1,900 crore for cybersecurity initiatives in 2025 demonstrates India's commitment to creating a secure digital ecosystem and protecting its Digital India initiative.