CYBERCRIME

What is Cybercrime?

• Cybercrime involves offenses where a computer is either the target or tool of illegal activities.
• It encompasses various forms of crimes exploiting technology, impacting individuals, organizations and governments.
• In India, it falls under state jurisdiction per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.

Types of Cybercrimes:

• DDoS Attacks: Disrupts services by overloading networks with excessive traffic.
• Botnets: Compromised networks controlled remotely for malicious activities.
• Identity Theft: Stealing personal information for impersonation or fraud.
• Cyber Bullying: Online harassment or intimidation using digital means.
• Phishing: Tricking individuals into providing sensitive information.
• Ransomware: Encrypts data, demanding payment for its release.
• Hacking: Unauthorized access to alter, steal, or destroy data.
• Fintech Fraud: Scams involving financial transactions or services.
• Child Exploitation: Digital abuse or harmful content targeting minors.
• Cyber Espionage: Unauthorized access for political or economic gain.

Cybercrime is a priority area for the Assam Police, focusing on combating cybercriminals and building investigator capacity.Assam Police is working closely with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre to enhance efforts.

Latest Measures to Combat Cybercrime in Assam

1. Infrastructure Development:

• • A Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centre is being set up in Assam, with funding from the Government of India.
  • Cybercrime police stations have been established at the CID headquarters and Guwahati City, with additional stations at Dibrugarh and Silchar.
  • Plans are underway to create cybercrime police stations in each district to enhance crime reporting and response.

2. Cybercrime Initiatives:

• • Assam Police is actively involved in the Cyber Tipline and the 1930 Initiative, focused on reporting and addressing cyber offenses.
  • Efforts are being made to tackle cyber child pornography and other forms of cybercrimes.
  • A comprehensive awareness campaign is being carried out through traditional media and social media channels.

3. Investigation and Forensics:

• • The investigation wing of Assam Police is being separated from law enforcement duties to improve efficiency.
  • Specialized Crime Scene Officers, trained at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhi Nagar, are being appointed in every police station to ensure scientific evidence collection.
  • An Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) for Crime has been appointed in each district to focus exclusively on cybercrime investigations.
  • Forensics capabilities are being strengthened to improve the investigation process.

4. Legal Support:

• • Legal advisors are available to Assam Police within agencies like the CID, Vigilance, and Anti-Corruption Bureau.
  • At the district level, legal support is provided by the District Superintendent of Police, with assistance from Government Advocates and Public Prosecutors.

With rising concerns over cybercrime, Assam Police is making significant strides in building the infrastructure and capacity needed to combat these crimes effectively. Through dedicated cybercrime police stations, specialized forensic support, and public awareness campaigns, Assam is strengthening its fight against the growing threat of digital crime.