India Strengthens Cyber Crime Response with Robust Measures
In a major step towards tackling the rising menace of cybercrime, the Indian government has reinforced its mechanisms for swift and effective action. Ensuring transparency, authorities have mandated the registration of all cybercrime-related FIRs through the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) portal.
Comprehensive Strategy to Combat Cybercrime
The Ministry of Home Affairs has implemented a series of initiatives under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to address cyber threats in a coordinated manner. Among the key measures:
- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP): A dedicated online platform that enables citizens to report cybercrime cases, with a special focus on crimes against women and children.
- Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System: Launched in 2021, this system has prevented fraudulent transactions worth over ₹4,386 crores in 13.36 lakh cases. A toll-free helpline (1930) also facilitates quick reporting.
- National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (Investigation): Providing forensic support to law enforcement agencies, this lab has assisted in over 11,835 cybercrime cases.
- Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC): A collaborative effort involving banks, payment aggregators, telecom operators, and law enforcement to swiftly respond to cyber fraud.
- Digital Awareness Campaigns: The government has launched extensive awareness drives, including newspaper ads, social media influencer campaigns, and radio broadcasts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted digital arrest scams in a Mann Ki Baat episode.
Strengthening Law Enforcement & International Collaboration
To enhance cybercrime response capabilities, seven Joint Cyber Coordination Teams (JCCTs) have been established in high-risk areas such as Jamtara, Hyderabad, and Guwahati. These teams facilitate inter-state cooperation.
Moreover, the Ministry of External Affairs holds regular cyber dialogues with other nations, and agencies like the CBI play a pivotal role in international cybercrime coordination via INTERPOL and the newly launched BHARATPOL portal.
Rising Cybercrime Cases Demand Urgent Action
The NCRB’s latest data highlights a growing number of cybercrime cases in India. In 2022 alone, 65,893 cybercrime cases were registered, marking a significant increase from 50,035 cases in 2020. Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh remain among the most affected states.
As digital threats evolve, the government continues to refine its strategies, leveraging technology, public awareness, and global cooperation to combat cybercrime effectively.
