CYBER CRIMES

In the digital age, cybercrime has emerged as one of the most critical threats to individuals, businesses, and governments. It encompasses a wide range of unlawful activities carried out through computers, networks, or digital devices. From data breaches and identity theft to financial fraud, cyberbullying, and ransomware attacks, the scope of cybercrime is vast and evolving.

Cyber crime refers to criminal activities that either target or use a computer, a computer network, or a networked device. It can be broadly categorized into:

1. Cyber-Enabled Crimes: Traditional crimes facilitated by digital technology—such as online fraud, cyberstalking, and defamation.
    
2. Cyber-Dependent Crimes: Crimes that exist only in the digital space—such as hacking, denial of service (DoS) attacks, and distribution of malware.
    

India has enacted several laws and regulations to address cybercrime, the most prominent being the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act). Some key provisions include:

• Section 66 – Computer-related offences (unauthorized access, data theft, hacking)
   
• Section 66C – Identity theft
   
• Section 66D – Cheating by personation using computer resources
   
• Section 67 – Publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form
   
• Section 72 – Breach of confidentiality and privacy
   
• Indian Penal Code (IPC) – Sections such as 419, 420, 463, 468, 469, and 500 are also applied in cyber crime cases involving cheating, forgery, and defamation.
   

• Phishing and Email Scams
   
• Cyberstalking and Online Harassment
   
• Social Media Fraud and Impersonation
   
• Banking and Credit Card Frauds
   
• Hacking and Data Breach
   
• Ransomware Attacks
   
• Online Defamation
   

Victims of cybercrime in India can file complaints through:

• Cyber Crime Cells of the police
   
• The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in
   
• Local police stations (FIR can be registered under both IT Act and IPC)
   

Legal remedies may include:

• Filing for damages and compensation
   
• Seeking injunction orders to remove defamatory or harmful content
   
• Initiating criminal prosecution against the offender
   

Cybercrime cases often involve complex digital evidence and jurisdictional issues. Having experienced legal professionals ensures:

• Timely filing of complaints and FIRs
   
• Digital forensics support
   
• Civil and criminal litigation strategy
   
• Liaising with cyber police and regulatory authorities
   

Protect your digital identity. Enforce your rights. Consult us today