New Delhi: The Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Delhi Alumni Association organised a book release event for "Cyber Encounters" in the national capital on Thursday. The book is written by Ashok Kumar, Uttarakhand Director General of Police (DGP) and co-authored by OP Manocha, former Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist. The foreword is written by filmstar Amitabh Bachchan. Ashok Kumar is an IPS officer of the 1989 batch from the Uttarakhand cadre. His earlier book 'Khaki Mein Insaan' has received the GB Pant Award from Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&amp;D) and the Ministry of Home Affairs. He has also authored another bestseller, Challenges to Internal Security of India. OP Manocha has executed various defence projects in DRDO and is an active blogger and writer. Presented in the form of twelve fascinating stories, the book gives an account of real cybercrimes relating to fake identity on social media, ransomware, card cloning, sextortion, and phishing, among others. The book makes people aware of the crimes being committed in cyberspace, highlighting the modus operandi of the criminals in committing these crimes. It also provides valuable cyber tips on how to prevent being a victim of such crimes. The book release event was witnessed in a jam-packed hall with the presence of eminent personalities, including cybercrime investigation experts, law enforcement officials, bureaucrats, entrepreneurs, academics, faculty members, students, and media personnel. The event was graced by Professor Vikram Singh, former DGP Uttar Pradesh, Lt Gen (Retd) Rajesh Pant, National Cyber Security Coordinator, Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Aman Gupta, cofounder and CMO, BoAt, Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Director General Anish Dayal Singh and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Director General Manoj Yadav. Speaking at the event, Ashok Kumar highlighted the challenges law enforcement agencies face in combating cybercrime and the need for increased awareness and capacity building in the field. OP Manocha discussed the various types of cyber threats and their impact on individuals, organizations and nations. A panel discussion, moderated by Advaita Kala, a renowned journalist and scriptwriter of the Bollywood thriller movie 'Kahani,' highlighted the techniques employed by cybercriminals and the challenges faced by the police, among other issues. —ANI

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Delhi Alumni Association organised a book release event for "Cyber Encounters" in the national capital.

Unveiling Dark World: Uttarakhand DGP's Book On Cybercrime Released In Delhi

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami released a book titled "Cyber Encounters" at St Joseph's Academy, Rajpur Road here on Sunday. This book has been written by DGP Uttarakhand Ashok Kumar and former DRDO scientist OP Manocha. CM Dhami said that this book has been written on a very important subject. For this, he appreciated the efforts of both the writers and Prabhat Prakashan. He said that Ashok Kumar and O.P. Manocha have written this book analyzing cyber crimes and based on true incidents, it will help readers a lot to avoid cyber crimes. He said that in this book where on the one hand an attempt has been made to make people aware by mentioning true incidents, on the other hand, the book is also entertaining. Each page of the book will serve to inspire people to protect themselves from cybercrime. The CM said that Anil Raturi and Prof. Surekha Dangwal reviewed this book. They understand police, administration and society well. On this occasion, the CM also mentioned some important parts of the book. The CM said that cybercrime is the biggest challenge of today's time and the awareness of the public regarding this challenge by the DGP of the state increases the relevance of this book even more. Today, as technology is developing, the graph of cybercrime is also increasing. Cybercrime is a never-ending game between the police and the criminals in which both compete to stay ahead of each other. The increasing graph of cybercrime day by day also indicates that criminals are using new techniques every day. The police are also working to break this trap being laid by criminals by taking the help of new techniques every day. We ourselves can avoid this technical crime, we just need to be aware. The author of the book, DGP Ashok Kumar gave information about many incidents related to cybercrime on the occasion of the book's release. He also gave detailed information about how we have to be alert to prevent cybercrime. DGP also informed about cybercrime and the challenges before us to overcome it. On this occasion Additional Chief Secretary Radha Raturi, former Director General Anil Raturi, Vice Chancellor Doon University Prof. Surekha Dangwal, Piyush Kumar from Prabhat Prakashan, Dr. Alaknanda Ashok, Shakti Manocha and other dignitaries were present. —ANI

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami released a book titled "Cyber Encounters" at St Joseph's Academy, Rajpur Road here.

U'khand CM Dhami Releases Book On Cybercrime Titled 'Cyber Encounters'

Colombo: In a worrying nexus of cybercrime, human trafficking and torture, Chinese gangs are running 'factories' for duping thousands of investors worldwide, according to Trueceylon News. Many job-seekers who went to Thailand for a job in IT were, in fact, recruited by Chinese criminal gangs to enslave them in cybercrime factories. Taking advantage of the sensitive geo-political situation in Myanmar and Cambodia, Chinese criminal gangs are luring several South Asian youths who are actively looking for jobs. The Chinese gangs manipulate them by misleading ads which promise high salaries for random online jobs, but in the end, forced them to commit cyber-frauds, according to Trueceylon News. For these gangs, the vulnerable job seekers from South Asian countries are the easy target. According to the publication, after luring them to Thailand, the gangsters usually push them illegally into other countries in the region with the bordering areas in Myanmar used most widely used for the purpose. Recently, the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked the citizens to beware of fraudulent job offers in Thailand in a public advisory, which was issued on April 21, 2023, reported Trueceylon News. They were also advised to exercise extreme caution and verify the background of recruiting agents before taking up any offer. The move came after the Sri Lankan Mission in Thailand noticed workers being tricked by dubious firms involved in call-centre scams and cryptocurrency frauds. Victims are illegally taken across the border from Thailand mostly into Myanmar and held captive to work under restrictive and harsh conditions. Authorities have also apprehended some of the victims for illegal entry into Myanmar. An examination of such cases revealed that the victims arrive in Thailand on tourist visas as the unknown recruiters usually promise to convert their visas to work visas after arrival, reported Trueceylon News. Earlier, similar issues were seen in other countries including Malaysia, Philippines, etc. In October 2022, 130 workers from India who were forced to work in Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia were rescued by the Indian government. The Indian embassy in Yangon, Myanmar also issued an advisory on July 5, 2022, cautioning against 'unscrupulous elements offering jobs'. The victims were offered well-paying IT jobs that turned out to be fake, according to Trueceylon News. While the exact working model of these rackets is yet to emerge fully, it is clear that they bank upon a great degree on regional coordination which is also linked to other nodes of illicit activities. Placed against the weak law enforcement in the domain of cyber crimes, the groups seem to have accomplished themselves in the South East Asian region. —ANI

In a worrying nexus of cybercrime, human trafficking and torture, Chinese gangs are running 'factories' for duping thousands

Suspected Chinese Gangs Luring Job Seekers Into Committing Cybercrime: Report

New Delhi: A parliamentary panel stated on Tuesday that the country urgently needs a data protection law that can effectively battle the cybercrime scourge and defend the interests and rights of individuals in the digital era.
According to the 48th report from the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, citizens' privacy rights could be jeopardised if the data protection framework wasn't implemented immediately.
"The Committee strongly advocates for the immediate action of enacting this crucial legislation to protect the interests and rights of citizens in the digital age," the committee said.—Inputs from Agencies

A parliamentary panel stated on Tuesday that the country urgently needs a data protection law that can effectively battle the cybercrime scourge and defend the interests and rights of individuals in the digital era.

Urgent need to introduce data protection law to curb cybercrime menace: Par Panel

New Delhi: In this digital era, where even a five-year-old knows how to scroll, swipe and tap, we all have accepted and adapted to modern technology. Well, when someone claims that they are tech-savvy and can deftly handle it, they often turn a blind eye to people masquerading as service providers behind the screen.   Cybercrime incidents have reached a new high in the country. In different forms that a layman cannot even think of. Emerging technologies are being extensively misused for criminal purposes like Artificial Intelligence (AI).   Now, there is a darknet (where people anonymously communicate and share files with each other) and will find various websites advertising.   The usual Google Search is not what can be used to access the part of the internet which is called the Dark Net/Web. The Web as seen by a normal user is simply the Surface Web. The Surface Web as statistics say constitutes only 5 per cent of the Internet content.   The second layer is the Deep Web which is 90 per cent of our internet usage in the form of emails, banking accounts, among others essentially specific sites protected by security firewalls, passwords etc.   Then comes the remaining 5 per cent which is the Dark Web/Net for which there are designated platforms such as The Onion Ring (TOR) , 12P for one to access and use it. It is further deep in the ocean of the internet and protected by several layers of encryption.   Concerning the dissemination of awareness regarding developments in the online world, International Commission on Cyber Security Law Chairman Pavan Duggal told IANS that he has been educating and advising the government including the Central Board of Secondary Education that we now need to incorporate cybercrime and cyber law education as a part of the school curriculum from first standard onwards.   The dark web has become a hub for illegal activities such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, and human trafficking.   According to sources, a number of criminal groups in Delhi are using the anonymity of the dark web to carry out their illegal activities. These groups are using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin to make anonymous transactions, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to track them down.  Some of the most common illegal activities being carried out by these syndicates include drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and money laundering. The dark web is also being used to sell stolen data, including credit card details and personal information.  "The right to access the internet is a part of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and as such the Dark Web is not illegal. However, the freedom to use something does not give a free pass to do anything or any activity that is illegal," Advocate Anant Malik said.  "Though invented in the mid 1990s to shield US intelligence, the dark web is a place for illicit activities like child pornography, human trafficking, among others, and sometimes even to the extent of giving killing contracts," Malik added.  It is good to be tech-savvy in this day and age, however the propensity to explore such areas is also high and one can land in big trouble with a simple click.   Recently, a major bust was made by the Narcotics Control Bureau which seized about 15,000 LSD Blots and arrested 6 people in what was a major drug operation ring carried out on the dark web.   According to the NCB, it was the largest ever Seizure in the country over the last two decades.   "The trail to apprehend these suspects however was done through a Special Investigation Team which was adept at carrying out intensive technical and field surveillance operations through cyber patrolling of social media sites," Malik told.  Drug cartels use the Dark Net with ease in a way that there are market places from where the user can purchase the contraband without knowing or having physical contact with the vendor who can be anywhere in the world.   "The IT laws in our country need a revamp to include provisions that can regulate the dark web," opined Malik, adding that there are generic sections such as punishments for publishing obscene material, sexually explicit content, depicting children in sexually explicit act, etc, however, none that can target other criminal activities that are carried out on a large scale such as drugs and arms dealings using the Dark web.   "It is an easy way to remain anonymous and indulge in such activities and at most be charged under section 24 of the NDPS Act which is punishment for external dealings in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in contravention of Section 12," said Malik.  Duggal said that we need to understand that we don't have any dedicated law on cybercrime. Secondly, we won't be sought to cover some cyber crimes under the Information Technology Act 2000, and also under the Indian Penal Code.   "Number three, our laws are extremely weak when I look at them as potential response mechanisms to fighting cyber crimes," he said.  The rise of dark web syndicates in Delhi remains a major concern. The anonymity of the dark web makes it difficult for law enforcement agencies to track down those involved in illegal activities, and the use of cryptocurrencies makes it even harder to trace the transactions.  "The need of the hour is specialised committees and teams to check and ban unregulated VPN services by taking help of Section 69 of the IT Act," Malik opined.  Section 69 pf the IT Act empowers the government to issue directions for interception or monitoring or decryption of any information through any computer resource, better infrastructure in the form of cyber experts and training of the officials of the cyber cell.

In this digital era, where even a five-year-old knows how to scroll, swipe and tap, we all have accepted and adapted to modern technology. Well, when someone claims that they are tech-savvy and can deftly handle it, they often turn a blind eye to people masquerading as service providers behind the screen. 

Dark Web syndicates exploit AI and anonymity for cybercrime surge

New Delhi: The art of cybercrime often lies in its power to deceive, with scammers constantly evolving tactics to ensnare unsuspecting victims. In a recent case, a philanthropic professional found herself swindled of nearly Rs three lakh in just five hours, in an operation that displayed a higher level of sophistication by cyber thugs.
The victim, referred to as Mahima (name changed), a resident of Dwarka, received a call from an unfamiliar number around 11 a.m. on July 25. An automated message, claiming her parcel was set to be returned, prompted her to press “1.” Assuming it was related to her frequent e-commerce orders, she complied.
However, as soon as she pressed the digit, a live person entered the call, alleging that the parcel sent in her name contained illegal items, including multiple passports, drugs, and clothing.
According to the police FIR registered at Dwarka cyber police station, accessed by IANS, the caller asserted that these items were linked to “terror outfits.” Mahima was instructed to file a complaint with the Mumbai Police urgently, to which she agreed. Moments later, the call was transferred to another person.
“I got terrified, I was told by the person that I should register a complaint with Mumbai Police to avoid any problem in future. I agreed to his suggestion. The call got transferred to another person,” read the complaint.
This new caller identified himself as a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) official, explaining that since the parcel had arrived in her name and was connected to money laundering through numerous bank accounts, she might be considered a suspect.
What alarmed Mahima was that the caller had access to her Aadhaar details, potentially obtained during her recent stay at Mumbai hotels.
“Since I had recently visited Mumbai for my official work, I believed his story,” she said.
The call was transferred once more, with the next caller posing as a ‘DCP of CBI.’ What convinced Mahima of the authenticity of the call were the background sounds, including what seemed like a genuine wireless transmitter and officers conversing in the background, lending credence to the call’s legitimacy.
“I heard sounds like wireless systems and officer noises in the background which made me believe that he is a police officer. He threatened me that since the parcel was in my name I will be arrested even if I have not committed any crime,” she said in her complaint.
Under threat of arrest, Mahima was coerced into cooperating in an ‘investigation’ over a Skype call, during which she was asked to turn on her camera. Despite her compliance, the scammers kept their cameras off.
“He told me that I need to cooperate for the Investigation which will happen over a Skype call. He also told that I should not move out of my room or call anyone. I became very terrified and anxious. Over the Skype call, I was asked to switch on the camera and they kept the camera off,” the FIR read.
As a result, she made multiple UPI transactions totaling Rs three lakh, only to later realise that she had fallen prey to fraudsters.&nbsp;
—IANS

The art of cybercrime often lies in its power to deceive, with scammers constantly evolving tactics to ensnare unsuspecting victims. In a recent case

‘Fake passports, drugs links & wireless sounds’: How a woman philanthropist was duped over a phone call

Chennai: The Cyber police of Tamil Nadu is creating awareness among the public against cyber scams wherein conmen and fictitious companies cheat the public using fake jobs and e-commerce platforms.  According to a senior officer with the Tamil Nadu police headquarters, several cyber scams are being reported from across the state and most of those who have lost money are educated people.  People are being lured into fake jobs and part time jobs and asked to deposit an amount as a processing fee. The fraudsters then inform the gullible job seekers that they have been selected and issue fake appointment letters and demand more money – which generally amounts to either one month salary or salary for two months.  Once the money is transferred to the account which the scamsters provide, the contact disappears. According to cyber wing police more than thousand people are falling prey to the job scam in Tamil Nadu in a day.  Lakhs of rupees are lost on a day to day basis in the state. In another modus operandi , fraudulent operators create fake E-commerce sites and cheat people which is also touching more than one to two crore rupees on a day to day basis.  With a phenomenal increase in such scams , the state police have decided to carry advertisements in railway stations, bus stations , movie theatres and a campaign among students also.  Sources in the cyber wing police told IANS that most of the scams are carried out using bank accounts that were opened in North Indian states using Aadhaar cards and other identity cards of people who are in no way connected  to such scams. Cyber wing police of Tamil Nadu have commenced a massive manhunt using advanced technologies.
—IANS

The Cyber police of Tamil Nadu is creating awareness among the public against cyber scams wherein conmen and fictitious companies cheat the public

TN police to conduct awareness against Cyber job scams as complaints mount

Chandigarh: As digital threats continue to evolve and pose challenges, Haryana Police on Wednesday said it has decided to give cyber security fresh momentum.
Under the leadership of its Director General of Police (DGP), the state police force is charting a fresh course towards an enhanced cybersecurity infrastructure with operational headquarters in Panchkula, a police spokesperson told IANS.
With an understanding of the intricate nuances that the digital age demands, the department is making efforts to streamline and bolster its cybercrime initiatives.
This includes the establishment of the state Cybercrime Coordination Centre in the tech-centric city of Gurugram, strengthening the state cyber police station and cyber forensic lab in Panchkula, and further increase the call handling capacity of its dedicated helpline for cyber-related grievances, 1930.
Ensuring strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) at the grassroots -- from territorial police stations to the expansive network of cyber police stations, reflects their commitment to this digital cause.
“The force acknowledges the need for robust policy frameworks to guide the future of cybersecurity in Haryana. Efforts are underway to develop and recommend policies tailored to address the challenges posed by cybersecurity, digital threats, and cybercrimes,” said the spokesperson.
“The plan places emphasis on fostering collaborative ties with cybersecurity agencies at both the national and international levels. Such collaborations aim to amalgamate best practices, insights, and shared experiences, fostering a unified front against digital threats,” an official statement quoting DGP Shatrujeet Kapur said.
The linchpin of this renewed drive is the training and upskilling of the police personnel.
The state is ensuring that its officers are not just equipped with weapons but also with knowledge.
Training modules, encompassing the latest in cyber threats, defensive methodologies and investigative techniques, are being rolled out.
The DGP's strategy also recognises the importance of public engagement. Plans are afoot to intensify awareness campaigns, targeting both public and private sectors.
These campaigns aim to drive home the importance of cybersecurity, nudging individuals and enterprises towards safe online practices, said the spokesperson.
With digital threats not limited to individuals, the protection of the state's critical digital infrastructure is paramount.
The DGP said as the digital realm remains ever-fluid, the department is keen on staying ahead of the curve. Initiatives are underway to set up robust mechanisms for real-time threat intelligence.
This proactive approach aims to keep Haryana prepared and vigilant against emerging cyber threats.
On the infrastructural side, the fifth floor of the 112 building in Panchkula is slated to be transformed into a hub of cybersecurity.
As Gurugram continues to thrive as a technological nexus, it's fitting that the city will house the state-of-the-art State Cybercrime Coordination Center, on the line of MHA’s India Cybercrime Coordination Centre.
At the helm of these comprehensive reforms is Additional DGP O.P. Singh.
—IANS

As digital threats continue to evolve and pose challenges, Haryana Police on Wednesday said it has decided to give cyber security fresh momentum

Haryana Police to give cyber security fresh momentum

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made an appeal that all states must work unitedly to finish off anti-national elements in the country.
Addressing the South India DGP’s Coordination Conference at Bengaluru on Wednesday, Siddaramaiah said, “Different crimes, including cybercrimes are coming to light in the state. Anti-national elements are present in Karnataka, Kerala and other states as well. The states need to work unitedly in the matter of terrorism,” he said.
CM Siddaramaiah further stated that legal hurdles must be removed to work unitedly in handling terrorism. The awareness must be created in this regard and good security has to be ensured.
“Different kinds of crimes are impacting privacy. The terrorists will carry out anti-national activities in one state and go into hiding in other states. All these elements should be finished off. There are issues surfacing at the level of state officers, these roadblocks should be resolved and united efforts must be put at the border areas,” CM Siddaramaiah stated.
“In the present day, cybercrimes and crimes of other nature are reported. The officers need to go one step ahead of the criminals and work. The work done by the police department towards protecting the society is commendable and it raises our confidence.
“I am proud that the prominent officers from the country are participating in the convention held in Bengaluru. The officers from Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, Andaman-Nicobar islands, the officers from NIA, CRPF, CISF are together participating in the meeting. We all should work unitedly,” he said.
—IANS

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made an appeal that all states must work unitedly to finish off anti-national elements in the country.

All states must work unitedly to finish off anti-national elements: K’taka CM

New Delhi (The Hawk): A new cybercrime investigation tool would soon be able to track cyberattacks targeting humans, like insurance fraud, online matrimonial fraud and so on. The tool called TTPs (tactics, techniques and procedures)-based cybercrime investigation framework can help in tracking and classifying cybercrimes identifying chain of evidences required to solve the case and in mapping evidences onto the framework to convict criminals. Cybercrime incidents cause 1 crore/day loss in many states. Mostly, women, aged and poor people are targeted resulting in loss of entire life savings. The number of cybercrime investigations was found significantly lesser than the number of cybercrime reports in India. The investigation of such cybercrimes depends on the FIR narratives by the victims who usually have extremely low cyber literacy. Hence their narratives frequently mislead or distract investigators. Victims frequently do not maintain contact after reporting the incident, which makes tracking the crime even more difficult. For success of cybercrime investigation, a proper framework was required which could extract key points from the victim's FIR, provide investigators with sufficient information on the reported cybercrime to categorize it systematically and exhaustively, indicate the steps to follow based on pre-existing crime paths, map evidences to the steps taken to decide the following step and finally conclude and convict criminals. No comprehensive framework exists for cybercrime incident response till now. In order to fill this gap, I-hub NTIHAC foundation (c3ihub) at IIT Kanpur with support from Department of Science and Technology (DST) under National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), developed a methodology and tool for apprehending cybercriminals’ modes of operations in a crime execution lifecycle. It was developed with the help of literature study, case studies, framework building, incorporating pre-existing crime in the framework, evolving interactive framework navigator and mapping real cases onto the framework. The technology can create an approximate crime execution path and suggest crime path based on user derived set of keywords. It can also compare modus operandi (Mode of Operation) used in different crimes and manage user roles and track activity for crime paths. The TTPs-based investigation framework could be highly effective as it restricts the numbers of forms and methods the investigation can be conducted and primarily rely on criminals’ TTPs. This leads to precise and rapid conviction of cybercriminals. Implementation of the developed cybercrime investigation framework and tool, which is now ready for deployment with the police, cybercriminals can be tracked and convicted easily, reducing cybercrime activities through the country.

A new cybercrime investigation tool would soon be able to track cyberattacks targeting humans, like insurance fraud

Cybercrime Investigation Tool Developed Can Track Cyberattacks Targeting Human

Chamarajanagar: A schoolteacher has lodged a complaint with the Karnataka Police against her former lover and his associate for blackmailing her over some private videos.
The accused had demanded that she leave her husband and give him Rs 10 lakh for not making the private videos viral, police said on Tuesday.
The victim teacher had lodged a complaint with police in this regard. The police launched a hunt for the accused who had disappeared following the lodging of the complaint.
The complaint was lodged against one Abdul Aseem and his associate Mayur.
Adbul Aseem and the victim were known for seven years. The woman got married to another person two years ago. The accused was pressuring the victim to leave her husband and join him.
He had threatened that if she did not leave her husband, he would make her private videos viral. The accused, Abdul Aseem along with his associate Mayur had sent her private videos to her husband and family members.
They had threatened that if she didn’t leave her husband, they would orchestrate Hindu-Muslim conflict. They had also demanded Rs 10 lakh from her for not making the private videos viral on social media.
The accused had threatened that if she did not give money, they would get her banners of private video footage erected in the area. The victim had approached the Cyber Economic and Narcotics Crime Police Station (CEN) and lodged the complaint. The police have taken up the investigation.
—IANS

A schoolteacher has lodged a complaint with the Karnataka Police against her former lover and his associate for blackmailing her

K'taka schoolteacher blackmailed over private video

New Delhi: With the growth of Artificial Intelligence, scams, phishing and other forms of human manipulation accounted for more than 75 per cent of all digital threats in the first half of 2023 globally.
According to the consumer cyber safety brand Norton’s new report released on Thursday, cybercriminals now have added support from Artificial Intelligence (AI) in creating sophisticated scams which has led to a surge in incidents.
The report identified some of the most prominent online scams people are facing today, including -- e-shop scams, sextortion scams, and tech support scams.
“Leveraging AI, criminals are creating scams that are not only more credible but alarmingly real, making them more convincing and harder to detect. Which is why it’s so important that consumers know what to be aware of,” said Luis Corrons, Security Evangelist for Norton.
Under e-shop scams, scammers create fake online stores, offering products at unbeatable prices. Once a purchase is made, the product is never delivered, and the website disappears.
In sextortion scams, cybercriminals threaten to release private or compromising information unless a ransom is paid.
These scams often begin with phishing emails and exploit human emotions like fear and shame, the report explained.
Moreover, in tech support scams, fraudsters pose as tech support agents from reputable companies. They trick victims into granting remote access to their computers, leading to data theft or ransom demands.
In the first half of 2023 (January 1 to June 30), more than 1.5 billion threats were blocked, including 117.8 million phishing attempts, 88.9 million desktop threats, 6,80,000 mobile threats, and over 2.6 billion trackers and fingerprinting attempts, the report showed.
—IANS

With the growth of Artificial Intelligence, scams, phishing and other forms of human manipulation accounted for more than 75 per cent

Scams, phishing made up over 75% of digital threats in first half of 2023: Report

Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Friday said there was no need for concern due to bomb threats to 15 schools in Bengaluru.  "The police are investigating bomb threat emails sent to 15 schools of Bengaluru city, and we are confident of catching the culprits in less than 24 hours," he said while speaking to reporters after visiting Neev Academy, one of the schools which received the threat email.  The Bengaluru city Police Commissioner has already informed that the bomb threat turned out to be hoax, he said.  However, the police aren't taking any chances and the bomb disposal squads are combing the premises of all the schools which received bomb threats. However, parents need not worry, he added.  The cybercrime police are active and alert and hence they were able to track these bomb threats immediately and take necessary action, he said.  "I am in regular touch with the police and there is nothing to worry about, he assured.  "Bomb threats can't be taken lightly and a thorough investigation needs to be done every single time in every single case".  On Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy's criticism of guarantee schemes, he defended saying, "His suggestions are part of the people's development. It is eventually government's decision. It is government's responsibility to address issues faced by farmers and poor class in view of rising prices."
—IANS

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Friday said there was no need for concern due to bomb threats to 15 schools in Bengaluru.

'No need for concern': K'taka DyCM Shivakumar on bomb threats emails

Ayodhya: With the countdown, to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Temple on January 22 the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has set up a camp near the shrine in Ayodhya to ensure quick response to any unforeseen situations.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to officiate the rituals for the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at the temple on January 22. Manoj Kumar Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of Police, NDRF provided insights into the security preparations. Shared details about the deployment of rescue personnel in Ayodhya of this significant event.  "We have strategically positioned three NDRF teams here before the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony on January 22. Our deployment is aligned with administration and police. One team is stationed at the ghats to promptly address any contingencies " Sharma revealed in a statement to ANI on Saturday.  Ayodhya has witnessed security arrangements throughout the city leading up to this ceremony. Praveen Kumar, Inspector General of Ayodhya expressed confidence in their preparations. Stated that they are coordinating with agencies, for necessary security measures. Visitors have started arriving for the 'Pran Pratishtha,'. Surveillance is being conducted using drone cameras and human intelligence. They are actively. Addressing any security vulnerabilities promptly. We have an outlook that the big event, on January 22 will go smoothly."  Regarding the safety of those attending Kumar mentioned that all necessary preparations have been made for the guests.  However amidst the atmosphere the Ayodhya Police issued a warning on Saturday about an increase in cybercrimes as the 'Pran Pratishtha' day draws near. Authorities disclosed that cybercriminals are taking advantage of interest by sending QR codes for 'donations to the Ram Temple. These scammers falsely promise prasad (food offerings) VIP passes and entry permits for the temple on January 22. The police cautioned citizens against responding to requests or messages without verification and urged them not to donate money without confirmation.  The booking process for 'aarti' passes to visit the Ram Janmbhoomi temple started in December leading up, to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony on January 22. Aartis are performed three times a day (6;30 am, 12 pm, 7;30 pm). Passes are issued for devotees.  On Monday a group of priests headed by Lakshmi Kant Dixit will carry out the rituals for 'Pran Pratishtha'. Previously the idol of Shri Ram Lalla created by sculptor Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru was respectfully placed inside the temples sanctum sanctorum.
—Input from Agencies

Explore Ayodhya's 'Pran Pratishtha' at Ram Temple with PM Modi leading rituals. NDRF ensures security, Aarti passes available. Stay informed on the grand event!

NDRF sets up Camp near Ram Temple in Preparation for 'Pran Pratishtha'

Surat : In a pioneering move, the Surat police have embraced cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to equip their personnel in tackling cybercrime effectively and meeting the cybersecurity demands of the citizens, revealed a senior officer.  Acknowledging the significance of AI in contemporary discussions, Additional Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sharad Singhal emphasized its inaugural application by the Surat Cyber Cell to safeguard the people of Gujarat from cyber threats. He highlighted the development of a language-specific chatbot designed to engage with victims. ACP Singhal remarked, "This chatbot will communicate with victims in their preferred language."  Speaking on the advantages of integrating artificial intelligence in addressing cybercrime, ACP Singhal elaborated on a new feature called 'Find My Police Station,' accessible to cybercrime victims. He likened it to a helpline, functional round the clock, allowing victims to locate their nearest police station efficiently.  Moreover, ACP Singhal outlined how AI will facilitate the police in assessing the prevalence and nature of cybercrimes across different areas of the city. "Artificial intelligence will enable us to identify the concentration and types of cybercrimes, aiding law enforcement in strategic intervention," he stated.  Highlighting the multifaceted role of AI in enhancing law enforcement capabilities, ACP Singhal emphasized the training of officers to effectively combat cybercrime syndicates involved in phishing, stalking, and sextortion.  This move by Surat Police follows the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Punjab Police with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, aiming to establish an in-house Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Lab—a testament to the growing importance of technology in modern policing.
—Input from Agencies

Surat Police pioneers AI solutions to combat cybercrimes, introducing language-specific chatbots and 'Find My Police Station' feature

Surat Police Harnesses the Power of AI to Combat Cyber Crimes

Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Congress leader and Lok Sabha candidate Shashi Tharoor has been booked for allegedly carrying out a false campaign against union minister and rival candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar, police said here on Sunday.
The case was registered by the Cyber Police here on April 15, but its details were revealed only today.  According to police, the case against Tharoor was registered based on a complaint lodged by BJP leader J R Padmakumar who accused the Congress leader of carrying out a false campaign against Chandrasekhar during a television programme.
The complainant alleged that Tharoor, during the programme, had made defamatory statements against Chandrasekhar with regard to influencing voters of coastal regions in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.  The case was registered under Sections 171-G and 500 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 65 of IT Act, a cyber police official said adding that an investigation is going on in the matter.  IPC 177-G refers to raising false statement in connection with an election, while IPC 500 relates to defamation.  Tharoor, who is contesting from Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency, is yet to react on the registration of the case.
—PTI

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor faces legal action for allegedly spreading false information about union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar during a TV program.

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