The rise of online and social media crimes in the country has presented new challenges as cyber criminals continuously adapt and exploit emerging technologies. These crimes encompass a range of activities, and some of the categories under online and social media-related crime include:
- Cheating by Impersonation: This involves deceiving individuals by assuming a false identity online to gain their trust and exploit them financially or emotionally.
- Cyber Bullying / Stalking / Sexting: These offenses refer to the use of online platforms to harass, threaten, or intimidate individuals, often through the dissemination of offensive or explicit content.
- E-Mail Phishing: Phishing is a technique where cyber criminals send fraudulent emails pretending to be legitimate organizations to deceive recipients into revealing sensitive information or performing malicious actions.
- Fake/Impersonating Profile: Creating and operating social media or online profiles under false identities with the intention to deceive or defraud others.
- Impersonating Email: Sending emails that appear to be from someone else or a reputable source with the goal of misleading recipients and carrying out fraudulent activities.
- Intimidating Email: Sending threatening or harassing emails to intimidate or cause fear in the recipient.
- Online Job Fraud: Scammers use online job portals to lure unsuspecting individuals into fake job offers or extract money from them under the guise of employment opportunities.
- Online Matrimonial Fraud: Exploiting online matrimonial platforms to deceive individuals seeking matrimonial alliances, often for financial gain.
- Profile Hacking / Identity Theft: Unauthorized access to someone’s online profile or personal accounts to steal information, commit fraud, or engage in other malicious activities.
- Provocative Speech for Unlawful Acts: Using online platforms to incite violence, spread hate speech, or encourage illegal activities.
These categories highlight the various forms of online and social media crimes that individuals may encounter. It is important for individuals to remain vigilant, exercise caution while engaging online, and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. Law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity organizations work together to combat these crimes and promote a safer digital environment.
