Cyber Frauds
With the growing use of computers in society, cybercrime has become an increasingly pressing issue. Technology has provided people access to many resources and services online, from social media to online shopping and jobs. This has opened up many opportunities and made us more vulnerable to cybercrime.
Cybercrime is unique because it has no geographical boundaries, and the perpetrators often remain unknown. It affects governments, businesses and citizens alike and is rising in India due to the increased use of information and communication technologies (ICT).
Cybercrime is a broad term used to describe criminal activities involving computers or networks. It can include phishing, credit card fraud, industrial espionage, child pornography, kidnapping via chat rooms and cyberterrorism. It also covers traditional crimes in which computers facilitate illicit activity.
Types of cybercrime include
- Cyber-stalking
- Dissemination of obscene material
- Defamation
- Hacking
- Cracking
- Email spoofing
- SMS spoofing
- Carding frauds
- Child pornography.
Crimes against property include
- intellectual property violations (e.g. software piracy),
- cybersquatting,
- cyber vandalism,
- hacking into computer systems,
- transmitting viruses and internet time theft.
Cybercrimes against the government can include cyberterrorism, cyber warfare, and possessing unauthorised information.
The Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act have been amended to account for cybercrimes. Measures such as awareness campaigns and improved law enforcement are essential to address the cybercrime issue in India. Additionally, promoting international collaboration and enhancing security infrastructure can make India a safer place for online activities.
The various offences related to the internet which have been made punishable under the IT Act and the IPC are enumerated below:
Cyber crimes under the IT Act:
- Tampering with Computer source documents – Sec.65
- Hacking with Computer systems, Data alteration – Sec.66
- Publishing obscene information – Sec.67
- Unauthorised access to protected system Sec.70
- Breach of Confidentiality and Privacy – Sec.72
- Issuing false digital signature certificates – Sec.73
Cyber Crimes under IPC and Special Laws:
- Sending threatening messages by email – Sec 503 IPC
- Sending defamatory messages by email – Sec 499 IPC
- Forgery of electronic records – Sec 463 IPC
- Bogus websites, cyber frauds – Sec 420 IPC
- Email spoofing – Sec 463 IPC
- Web-Jacking – Sec. 383 IPC
- Email Abuse – Sec.500 IPC
Cyber Crimes under the Special Acts:
- Online sale of Drugs under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act
- Online sale of Arms Arms Act
Cyber fraud has become an increasingly common problem in today’s digital age. If you have been a victim of cyber fraud, it’s important to seek legal assistance to protect your rights and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
At Icon Legal Services, we specialise in handling cyber fraud cases and have a team of experienced lawyers who can help you navigate the legal process.
Our team understands the complex nature of cyber fraud cases and has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve a positive outcome. We’ll work closely with you to understand the specifics of your case and develop a strategy to help you achieve justice.
If you’re dealing with cyber fraud and need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll work tirelessly to help you achieve a favourable outcome and put the stress of the situation behind you.