Cyber crime on the rise

The state is seeing an alarming rise in cybercrime cases, involving fake online job interviews, fake consultancies, objectionable content, cyber-stalking of women, abusive messages or hacking.

The state recorded about 700 cases in 2013 as against 500 in 2012.

Most of these cases fall under the purview of the Information Technology Act, but with the recent spurt, the need for more stringent rules and wider provisions in the law has become essential. “In murder cases, IPC can be put into force. But if there is only a complaint of hacking, there can be only a small punishment,” a police officer said. “But one positive thing is that now more people are coming forward to report such incidents. If they bring them to our notice, then we will be aware of them and can act on accordingly. Many parents have been complaining of cyber bullying as well off late. So, it is important to be alert as well,” he added.