Rise in Online Frauds in India: Dark Digital Diaries Part-1
Digital technology has given us comforts and conveniences that could hardly have been imagined even a generation ago. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work, play and do business. From virtual school to ordering groceries, practically everything we do and interact with has now been implemented with a digital component at virtually no cost. This rapid development of digital solutions has had its downside: record fraud. More progress now means more danger.
A number of digital scams have emerged, each using sophisticated tactics to trick and defraud innocent individuals. One common form is phishing, where criminals masquerade as legitimate organizations or individuals and attempt to obtain sensitive personal information such as passwords, credit card information, or bank account credentials. These scams are often carried out via emails, text messages or even phone calls, tricking victims into revealing their confidential information.
While India aims to transform the country into a $1 trillion digital economy by 2026, it also faces a growing challenge from online scams, like poisonous snakes slithering through the virtual world, preying on the hopes and dreams of hardworking citizens.
India in particular has become a hub for online fraud, with reports showing an alarming rise in cybercrime across the country. Authorities urge citizens to be cautious and stay informed to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
The rapid proliferation of Internet connections and the explosive growth of online platforms have provided a fertile ground for cybercriminals to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. The most vulnerable target groups are often the elderly, less tech-savvy and those who may not be fully aware of the risks associated with digital transactions.
Faceless predators brutally steal every hard-earned rupee that represents their work. Lives are shattered, dreams are shattered, and all that is left is a deep sense of helplessness.
Yet in the midst of this darkness, an unfortunate truth is revealed. Authorities and law enforcement agencies tasked with protecting the innocent are overburdened and under-resourced.
However, to combat this growing threat, the Government of India, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has been actively working to raise awareness and implement measures to curb digital scams.
Public awareness campaigns, education initiatives and strengthening cyber security frameworks are strategies used to raise awareness among citizens and secure their digital lives.
But amidst the shadows of desolation, there remains a glimmer of hope. Citizens demand change and protect against these digital robberies.
CNN-ReturnByte is taking the initiative to rally behind these voices, amplifying and transforming their stories into a force for change. We are looking for comfort, certainty and the opportunity to rebuild our broken lives. The search for a solution begins when the collective voices get louder.
