Cyber fraud and online scams have become one of the fastest growing crimes worldwide. With a rapid increase in the use of digital transactions, e-commerce and social media, criminals are looking for new ways to exploit people. To fight this problem, governments need to make strict, clear and technology-friendly rules and regulations. These rules should not only punish the fraudsters but also protect common citizens, businesses and sensitive data. I will explain in detail what kind of rules and regulations are needed against cyber fraudsters and scamsters:
1. Strong cyber crime laws and clear definitions
One of the biggest weaknesses in the fight against cyber fraud is a strong, update and lack of clear laws that properly define all types of cyber crime. Technology changes rapidly, and new methods of fraud emerge every day. For example, ten years ago, the cryptocurrency scams were rare, but today they are among the fastest growing online fraud. Similarly, fake job scams, fishing attacks and romance scams have become extremely common now, yet in many countries laws either do not recognize them as different crimes or fail to define them in detail. This causes flaws to take advantage of scamsters.
Governments should update their Information Technology (IT) Acts, Criminal Codes and Data Protection Acts to ensure that all types of cyber crimes are clearly mentioned. For example, phishing should be defined separately from identity theft, romance scams should be classified separately from financial scams, and copying crimes include fake social media accounts, email spoofing and fraud related to deepfec. Without such obvious definitions, police officers can hesitate to file appropriate first information report (FIR), and the courts may be difficult to punish the correct punishment. In addition, laws should be included not only financial fraud but also cyberstocking, harassment, replaced pornography, copying, data violations and sales of stolen personal data on the dark web. These crimes often cause emotional and psychological damage to the victims, in addition to financial losses.
Another important aspect is global standardization. Since cyber crime is borderless, scamsters often work from one country and target victims in another country. If laws are consistent internationally, it becomes easy for agencies such as Interpol and Europeol to coordinate and extradite criminals. In short, strong and clearly defined cyber crime laws remove laws, empower police and judiciary, protect the victims, and ensure that fraudsters do not avoid punishment by taking advantage of the old legal structure.
2. Strict punishment and punishment
One of the major reasons for increasing cyber fraud worldwide is the lack of strict punishment. In many cases, even when cyber criminals are caught, small fines or small jail sentences escape. This creates an atmosphere where scamsters see online fraud as a “low risk, high profit” business. If the punishment are weak or the cases are delayed, criminals are not afraid of the results. To change this, governments have to implement strict punishment and quick legal procedures for cyber offenses. Penal for small fraud should include heavy fines, cancellation of digital rights (such as ban on use of digital wallets or online banking for a certain period) and compulsory community service. Large -scale scams – such as investment fraud, crypto scam, or organized fishing ring – should be equal to the punishment given to organized criminals or money launders. This includes the sentence of long jail, confiscation of property and freezing bank accounts associated with illegal transactions.
Repeated crimes should face steadfast punishment. For example, a once caught scammer may be imprisoned for 5 years, but if caught again, the punishment should be automatically doubled or may also have life imprisonment in serious cases. This causes prevention. In addition, cyber crime laws should also include compensation to victims. Many victims lose their lives in scams, and they never get their money back without proper law. The courts should make it mandatory that the fraudsters return the stolen amount, even if they have to sell their property or seize the hidden property.
Special cyber crime courts can also accelerate the cases, as the delayed justice benefits the scamsters. If a scamster is given quick and severe punishment, it sends a strong message to others. Overall, strict punishment ensures that online fraud is not seen as a plan to earn money easily. Instead, it becomes a high -risk crime with heavy consequences, which discourages both first and professional scamsters.
3. Compulsory identity verification for online activities
The biggest reason for cyber fraud being so common is that criminals can easily hide fake identity, anonymous profiles or unidentified accounts. Scamsters create thousands of fake social media accounts, open bank accounts using stolen IDs, and use unregistered SIM cards to cheat people. Since the victims are unable to trace them, the fraudsters easily escape. Governments can deal with this problem by applying compulsory identity for all major online activities (Knowing KYC – Know your customer). For example, Aadhaar verification in India can be linked to social media accounts, mobile numbers and digital wallets. Social security numbers in the US can be used for similar purposes. Other countries may develop their own safe digital ID system.
If every online account-he is a bank, social media or e-commerce-requires verified identity, then it will be difficult for criminals to use fake names and numbers. This does not mean that all personal details should appear publicly, but platforms should at least verify them in the background. For example, the old blue tick of Twitter was a way to verify celebrities, but governments can require a uniform verification process for all citizens in sensitive digital activities. SIM card registration is another important step. Many scams begin with anonymous phone calls or SMS fraud. If the SIM cards are issued only after strict verification, the scam call centers will be demolished. Similarly, digital wallets and cryptocurrency exchanges have to verify the identity before allowing large transactions.
However, this system should be balanced with privacy security. Governments should ensure that the verified ID is safely stored and not misused. Data leaks can cause another problem, so strong data protection laws should be accompanied by identity verification. Compulsory identity verification makes it extremely difficult for criminals to work in pseudo form. Although it may have to try to install it, it is one of the most effective long -term solutions against online fraud.
4. Digital payments and strict rules on banks
Almost every cyber scam, whether phishing, fake jobs, or crypto fraud, is eventually associated with money transfer. Criminals take advantage of detecting weak banking security, uncomfortable payment system and slow fraud to steal money. Once the money is transferred, it is often the money laundering through several accounts, which makes the recovery almost impossible.
Governments should implement strict rules on digital payments, banks and e-wallets. First, all financial institutions should follow strict KYC criteria to ensure that the accounts are not opened with fake or theft identity. Banks should continuously update the fraud-detection systems, which automatically mark international transfer without suspicious transactions, such as sudden large transfer, frequent micro-transactions, or without prior permission. Additionally, any suspicious transactions above the prescribed limit should be automatically freeze until verified. This gives victims and banks time to stop fraud before disappearing money. For example, if a person suddenly transfers ₹ 5 lakh to an unknown crypto wallet, the system should stop payment and inform both the sender and the bank.
Governments can also start compulsory fraud insurance schemes. The victims of scams should be able to get their money back, especially if the bank or payment is proved to be negligent from the service provider. In India, the Reserve Bank already considers banks responsible in some cases, but these rules require global expansion. Cryptocurrency exchanges should also be regulated. Since crypto transactions are irreversible and mostly anonymous, they have become a favorite tool for scamsters. By the need to follow KYC to exchanges and report suspicious activities, governments can reduce crypto-related fraud.
In addition, banks should have dedicated cyber fraud hotline, allowing victims to report scams immediately. As a result of the delay, there is often a complete loss of money. In short, strict rules in the digital payment field will deprive the scamsters of their final goals. Without easy access to financial systems, online fraud will decrease rapidly.
5. Special Cyber Crime Investigation Units
Cyber crime is not like a traditional crime. This requires advanced technical knowledge, forensic equipment and global cooperation. Unfortunately, many police departments are not fully equipped to deal with digital fraud. The victims often complain that local police officers either do not understand cyber crime or spend months in investigation.
Governments should set up special cyber crime investigation units at both national and state levels. Among these units, trained officers should be employed in collecting digital forensic, ethical hacking, blockchain tracking and online intelligence information. They should also have access to modern software tools that can detect IP addresses, recover deleted data and track the cryptocurrency transactions. Forensic laboratories dedicated to cyber crime are equally important. These laboratories can analyze the fishing email, fake website or hacked server to detect fraudsters. They can also work on recovering many digital wallets or money trails hidden in international bank accounts.
Since many scams are across the border, these units will also have to coordinate with international agencies such as Interpol, Europeol and National Cyber Security Centers. For example, a scammer in Nigeria can target a victim in India using a fake US-based website. It becomes impossible to catch such criminals without international cooperation. In addition, governments should conduct public awareness campaigns in partnership with these units. Prevention is often more effective than punishment. If citizens are educated about general scams, then they will be less likely to fall prey.
Finally, these units should be given independent authority and quick powers. Often, as long as the traditional police get approval for investigation, the scamsters have already withdrawn money. Quick response teams, frozen accounts and international cooperation can be dealt with more effectively than cyber crime. In short, dedicated cyber crime investigation units ensure sharp, smart and more effective action against scamsters, promoting both prevention and prosecution.
6. Data protection and privacy regulations
One of the most common early points of cyber fraud is the theft of personal data. Hackers and scamsters constantly discover database with sensitive information like name, phone number, email address, bank account details, Aadhaar number, social security number or credit card details. Once this data is stolen, it is sold on the dark web or scams directly misuse. For example, if fraudsters get phone numbers and email list, they can send a fishing message on a large scale. If they have banking details, they can try unauthorized transactions.
To prevent this, governments have to pass strict data security and privacy rules. Customer data-handled companies and institutions such as banks, telecom companies, hospitals, schools and e-commerce platforms-should be legally responsible for the protection of this information. They should use encryption, two-factor authentication, firewall and regular security audit to ensure data security. If they fail and the user data is leaked, they will have to face heavy punishment and pay compensation to the victims whose data was misused. For example, in the European Union, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is considered a golden standard. This forces companies to take the consent of the user before collecting data and makes them responsible for reporting any data violation within 72 hours. Similar rules should be implemented worldwide so that no company can ignore the privacy of the user.
Another important step is to limit the over-collection of data. Many apps and websites collect unnecessary information, which increases the risk of leaking. In regulations, it should be ensured that companies collect only the required data and remove the data after a certain period. By making data security a top priority, governments can reduce the amount of personal information available to the fraudsters. When businesses know that the failure of user data safety results in severe punishment, they will take cyber security more seriously. This not only protects individuals but also strengthens confidence in the digital system.
7. Compulsory cyber awareness program
If common people are ignorant of cyber threats, then the stringent laws and punishment will not work. Most online scams are not successful due to advanced hacking, but are successful because the victims are cheated to share personal details, click malicious links or rely on fake profiles. For example, fishing emails that look like bank notifications, fake job proposals or romance scams all depend on human psychology rather than technical weakness. That is why governments should make cyber awareness programs mandatory. These programs should start from schools and colleges, where youth are first introduced to the Internet. Students should be taught how to create a strong password, identify suspicious links, avoid overhering on social media and report cyberbulling or cheating. Similarly, universities can include advanced cyber security awareness in their curriculum, especially for students studying finance, IT or business.
Compulsory training sessions should be held for employees for protecting the company’s data at workplaces. Many data violations occur because an employee clicks on the fishing email or uses a weak password. Regular workshops, online training modules and fake fishing exercises can prepare employees to be vigilant. Governments should also conduct public awareness campaigns through TV, radio, newspapers and social media. Like road safety and health awareness advertisements, cyber security advertisements should also remind people about the prevention of fraud. Telecom companies and banks should be legally required to send regular scam warnings to customers through SMS, email or app notifications. For example, a message like “Bank will never ask for your OTP or password” can stop thousands of scams.
Special attention should also be paid to elderly citizens, rural population and first internet users, which are often most unsafe. Community programs, helpline and simple language guides can help them avoid fraud. Cyber awareness is the first line of defense. When people are cautious and informed, the scamsters lose their biggest weapon – human ignorance.
8. International cooperation treaties
Cyber crime is a borderless offense. The scammer sitting in one country can target the victims in another country without getting out of their house. For example, a fraud call center in South Asia can cheat victims in Europe, while fishing websites can be hosted in African or Eastern European countries. Since the Internet is global, it becomes very difficult to catch these criminals if each country works only within its limits. This is why international cooperation treaties are necessary. Governments should sign agreements that allow information to share information, extradition of cyber criminals and joint investigation. Without such treaties, scamsters take advantage of safe targets – countries where cyber laws are weak or where police do not cooperate with foreign agencies.
A good example of this is a Budapest Convention on Cyber Crime, which brings many countries together to create a shared structure to deal with cyber crimes. More and more countries need to join and make equal regional treaties. For example, South Asian countries can formulate a joint cyber crime agreement, while African countries can enter into digital security agreement. Extradition treaties are particularly important. If a scammer is caught in one country, he should be immediately handed over to the victim’s country for the trial. Otherwise, legal flaws and bureaucracy delay justice for years.
Additionally, international agencies such as Interpol, Europeol and UNODC (United Nations Drugs and Offenses) play an important role in the coordination of global cyber crime reactions. Governments should strengthen their participation in such agencies by providing financing, intelligence information and trained cyber experts. Without cooperation, cyber criminals will always be one step ahead by campaigning across the borders. However, with cooperation, law enforcement agencies can create a global digital police network that will ensure that the fraudsters do not have any place to hide.
9. Regulation of online platform
Online platforms such as social media networks, e-commerce site and job portal have become major tools for scamsters. Fake profiles, fraud ads and misleading job proposals are everywhere. For example, scamsters create fake Facebook or Instagram accounts to run investment scams. Fraudsters also post fake job proposals on LinkedIn for stealing personal data or “registration fee.” Similarly, fake vendors on e-commerce platforms cheat buyers with low quality products. Governments should regulate these platforms and make them legally responsible for monitoring and removing fraudulent materials. Platforms should be required to use AI-based systems to detect fake accounts, suspected advertisements and scam websites. For example, if a person creates 50 accounts from the same IP address, the system should automatically mark it for review.
Additionally, the platform should provide easy reporting systems for users. Many victims do not know where to report the scam, or their report is ignored. Governments can enact laws that compel the platforms to react within a certain time frame, such as 48 hours, to remove fraudulent materials. The penalty should also apply to platforms that fail to take action against scams repeatedly. If a company allows scam advertisements to run for months without any action, it will face heavy fines or legal sanctions. This will motivate technical companies to take the prevention of scam more seriously.
Transparency is another important rule. The platforms should publish a regular transparency report that shows how many fake accounts were removed, how many scam advertisements were blocked, and the complaints of users were resolved how quickly. By regulating the platforms, governments create a safe online environment. Since most scams begin on these platforms, strict monitoring and accountability can prevent fraud at source.
10. Victim protection and compensation law
Cyber fraud victims often suffer disastrous losses. Some people lose their entire life’s savings, while others face emotional trauma due to romance scams or identity theft. Unfortunately, in many countries the victims get very little or no help. Police may refuse to register cases, delay bank investigation, and legal battles can last for years. This discourages the victims from reporting scams, which indirectly helps the fraudsters.
Therefore, governments should enact strong victim protection and compensation laws. First, the complaint process should be faster and simple. Victims should be able to file reports through online, mobile apps without long paperwork or through helpline. Police and banks should legally be required to accept complaints within a few hours instead of weeks. Second, a cyber crime relief fund should be created. This fund can be supported by fines collected from fraudsters, punishment on careless companies and government contribution. The victims can get immediate financial assistance from this fund until the investigation continues. This ensures that they do not remain helpless after losing money.
Third, banks, telecom companies and digital platforms should be partially responsible if their negligence allows the fraud to succeed. For example, if a bank clearly fails to prevent fraudulent transactions, he will have to pay compensation to the victim. Apart from financial assistance, victims also require emotional and legal aid. Governments can provide free counseling services for people suffering from online scams, as well as provide legal assistance to assist them.
Finally, the safety of the victims encourages more people to come forward and report fraud. If the victims know that they will be assisted, they will not sit silent due to shame or fear. This creates a culture where scams are reported immediately, which helps in catching law enforcement before the criminals run away. In short, the aggrieved protection laws ensure that justice is not only about punishing criminals, but also about restoring the lives of those who lose damage from cyber fraud.
11. Compulsory reporting by banks and financial institutions
The fastest way to prevent cyber fraud is to ensure that suspected financial transactions are immediately detected and reported. Many scams are successful because banks and payment services either do not pay attention to unusual transfer or delay in reporting them. By the time action is taken, the money has already been transferred through several accounts or converted into cryptocurrency, causing the recovery to be almost impossible. To prevent this, governments must implement strict rules, so that it becomes mandatory for all banks, payment gateways, e-wallets and financial institutions to inform the Central Cyber Crime Monitoring Center to inform the Central Cyber Crime Monitoring Center within 24 hours. This central system can analyze the pattern and detect the movement of funds in various accounts in real time.
For example, if a person suddenly transfers ₹ 10 lakh to a foreign account or receives dozens of micro transactions from unknown sources, the system should mark it as a potential fraud. Instead of waiting for the complaints of the victims, banks should stop or stop such transactions until verification. This not only protects the victim but also forms a database of fraud techniques used by the scamsters. Compulsory reporting also helps in creating a national fraud identity system. By studying suspected transactions of all banks, officials may immediately identify new scam trends such as investment fraud gangs or fake e-commerce networks. This data can be shared with state cyber crime units and even international agencies to catch fraudsters working globally.
To make this system effective, governments should impose fines on banks or institutions that fail to report timely fraud. If negligence is proved, they should also need to compensate the victim. Also, institutions must have appropriate training and access to equipment to identify suspicious activities. Compulsory reporting by banks and financial institutions is like creating a real -time alarm system against fraud. This ensures that the scams at the financial level are stopped before the criminals run away with the theft money.
12. Keep a fast watch on cyber crime courts
The greatest disappointment for the victims of cyber fraud is the slow pace of justice. In many countries, cyber crime cases continue to run in regular courts for years, as judges have a lot of criminal and a extreme burden of civil affairs. During this time, the victims not only struggle to get their stolen money back but also suffer emotionally and mentally. Worse is that scamsters use these delays for their own benefit, because long hearing reduces the fear of punishment. To fix this, governments will have to set up special fast-track cyber crime courts. These courts should only be dedicated to online fraud, hacking, data theft and digital scams. The goal should be to solve each case within 3 to 4 months instead of years. This provides quick justice to the victims and the scamsters send a strong message that cyber crime is taken seriously.
Fast-track courts will also have trained judges and legal experts in cyber laws and digital evidence management. Many regular courts struggle with technical aspects, such as electronic evidence, verification of blockchain records or email trails. Specific courts can efficiently handle such cases with the help of forensic experts. These courts should also give priority to the compensation of the victims. Instead of waiting till the end of a case, the courts may order interim relief from the Cyber Crime Relief Fund or confiscate the property of the fraudsters. This ensures that the victims do not have to suffer for years without financial assistance.
In addition, fast-track cyber crime courts can reduce the burden on regular courts, which can improve the overall judicial system. Countries like India, which already use fast-track courts for crimes such as sexual harassment or corruption, can expand this model to cyber crime. Finally, the presence of specific, quick courts creates a culture of quick justice and strong detention. Scamsters will think twice before cheating if they know that they can be caught and punished within months.
13. Regulation of SIM card and mobile number
Scamsters often rely on several SIM cards and fake mobile numbers to operate call centers, sending fraud -fraud SMS messages, or to cheat to the victims to share personal information. Many cases of fraud starts with a simple phone call where the fraudsters pretend to be a bank officer, government employee or technical support agent. If mobile numbers are not strictly verified, criminals can easily buy dozens of SIM cards using fake IDs or theft documents. To prevent this, governments should implement strict verification procedures to issue SIM cards. Telecom operators will have to check basic identity documents such as Aadhaar in India, social security ID in the US or passport in other countries before activating the SIM. Biometric verification such as fingers or facial identification can be used to ensure authenticity.
Another important rule should be to limit the number of SIM cards to be issued per person. Criminals often use 50 to 100 SIM cards to run scams, and keep changing numbers repeatedly to avoid being caught. For example, fixing the limit of issuing a maximum of 5 SIM per person per person will make it difficult for scammer call centers. Governments should also make it mandatory for telecom companies to block the numbers reported for fraud immediately. If a victim reports that a number was used for fraud, telecom operators should suspend that number without delay and share details with law enforcement.
In addition, telecom companies should maintain a centralized database of suspected numbers and share it with banks, law enforcement agencies and cyber monitoring centers. In this way, the numbers related to the scam can be quickly identified and blacklisted. By strictly regulating SIM cards and mobile numbers, governments can close one of the main devices used by the scamsters. Without easy access to uncomfortable numbers, running cyber fraud operations becomes far more difficult.
14. Cryptocurrency Regulation
Bitcoin, atherium and other cryptocurrency have become popular not only for legitimate investment but also for criminal activities. One of the main reasons for scamsters to like crypto is that transactions are sharp, boundaryless and irreversible. Once the money is sent to the crypto wallet, it can be transferred to dozens of wallets around the world within minutes, making it almost impossible for the victims to recover their money.
To deal with this problem, governments will have to implement strict rules on cryptocurrency exchanges and transactions. First of all, all exchanges must be required to follow KYC (Know your customer) like banks. This means that users will have to provide verified identity documents before purchasing or selling cryptocurrency. Anonymous trade should not be allowed. Second, exchanges should be legally required to inform the authorities of suspected wallet activities. For example, if a newly constructed wallet suddenly receives hundreds of transactions or it is transferred to a large amount of foreign wallet, it should be marked for investigation. Governments should also classify scams related to crypto under money laundering and financial fraud laws. To hide the stolen amount, the fraudsters who use crypto should face strict punishment as traditional money launders. This includes long prison sentences and seizure of digital properties.
Blockchain technology can also be used to detect stolen funds, but it requires cooperation between exchanges, regulators and law enforcement. By creating a central monitoring system, governments can monitor the suspected wallets and prevent criminals stolen crypto from capitalizing on traditional currencies. Although regulation is necessary, governments should also encourage safe and transparent use of cryptocurrency, as a complete ban on them can make the business underground. The goal should be to create a system where legitimate users are protected and fraudsters are punished. Regulating cryptocurrency ensures that digital money does not become a safe shelter for scamsters. With proper monitoring, Crypto can be safely used without making a weapon of fraud.
15. Black list of fraud websites
Fraud websites are one of the most common devices used by scamsters to cheat people. Fake online shopping sites, investment platforms, loan portals and job websites cheat the victims and get their personal information filed or pay. Since these sites often look professional and reliable, common people cannot easily identify them as scams. To prevent this, governments should make a centralized blacklist of fraud websites. This blacklist should be updated in real time and made accessible to the public through the government portal. Citizens should be able to check whether a website is safe before entering or paying their details. Additionally, Internet Services Providers (ISPs) must immediately block access to sites inserted into the black list. Search engines like Google and Bing should also be legally bound to remove scam sites from their search results after the government reported by the government. With this, new victims can be prevented from accidentally meeting them.
The blacklist should also include fishing links, fake banking portals and clone websites copying legitimate companies. Since many scamsters continue to create new domains, governments should use AI-based monitoring equipment to automatically detect suspected sites and add them to the list. Citizens must be able to easily report suspicious websites to strengthen the system. Once verified, these sites can be added to the blacklist within a few hours. Banks, telecom companies and e-commerce platforms should also share the data of the scam website with the central portal. Governments not only protect individuals but also create awareness by maintaining national black list. If people will see that thousands of scam sites are being blocked every month, then they will be more cautious while browsing online. Blacklist of fraudulent websites is like a digital shield for citizens, which prevents them from getting caught in a trap laid by online fraud.
16. Strict rules of online loan app
In recent years, fake loan apps have become one of the most dangerous nets for the common people, especially in developing countries. These apps often appear on the official app such as Google Play or Apple Store in disguise of real financial services. They promise “immediate loans” with very few documents, which attracts people with immediate needs of money. Once users install these apps, they are asked to provide permissions such as contacts, photos, messages and even access to their microphones. Fraud begins when these apps give a small loan but later start charging highly high hidden interest rates. When the victims fail to pay, the operators of these apps start blackmailing them by sending derogatory messages to their contacts or editing individual photos to humiliate them. This harassment sometimes pushes the victims to depression and even suicide.
Governments should take strict action to stop such tragedies. First of all, all digital lending apps will have to undergo licensing and registration process. Only banks, registered non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) or licensed institutions should be allowed to provide online loans. Second, there should be compulsory audit and compliance check by financial authorities every few months. This ensures that apps are following the appropriate interest rate rules and do not exploit customers. Third, the app store should also share the responsibility. If they host unregistered loan apps, they should be fined heavy. Many fake apps work because the app stores do not properly examine their authenticity. If strict punishment is imposed, the platforms will become more alert.
The second step is to start a public awareness campaign so that people know how to identify real financial apps and how to avoid suspicious apps. Governments can also create a central database of approved loan apps, which will make it easier for citizens to verify before downloading. Finally, the victims of harassment must have a direct grievance redressal mechanism where they can report fraud and officers can take immediate action. By implementing these strict rules, society can reduce the damage caused by debt scams and protect weaker citizens.
17. Strong Anti-Fishing Law
Fishing has become one of the most common devices of online scammers. This includes sending fake email, SMS or WhatsApp messages that pretend to be from a trusted organization like bank, government department or even e-commerce company. The message usually consists of a link that takes the victim to a fake website, where they are cheated to enter personal information such as bank account number, OTP, credit card details or passwords. Once this data is collected, scamsters use it to steal money or steal identity. Every year millions of people around the world are victims of fishing because these messages often look very reliable.
Governments need to solve this problem through specific and strong laws. Telecom operators and email service providers must legally filter suspected fishing messages. Advanced techniques such as AI-based spam filters can be used to detect suspected links and block them before reaching users. Additionally, sending large amounts of fraud emails or SMS messages should be imposed harsh penalty, including heavy fines and long prison sentences. It will act as a preventive for organized cyber crime groups. It is also necessary to make businesses accountable. For example, if the name of a bank is misused in fishing campaigns, the bank should immediately warned all customers through official channels. Governments may also demand organizations to maintain cyber security hotline, where fishing efforts can be reported immediately.
Another important step is to create a national blacklist of known phishing domains and numbers. This list should be updated regularly and shared between telecom operators, ISPs and email providers. The victims should also be legally preserved so that banks cannot deny the obligation in case of fraud through fishing, provided the victims report immediately. Public awareness campaigns should be taught to people that they should never click on unknown link or share OTP. Strong anti-firing laws will not only reduce the number of fraud but will also make working for criminals more risky. Fishing can be reduced to a great extent by strict filtering, punishment and accountability.
18. Ban on caller ID spoofing
Caller ID is another major weapon used by the Spoofing Scamsters to cheat people. In this method, the scamster hides his real phone number and makes it seem as if the call is coming from a reliable source, such as a government helpline, bank or even police. For example, someone can receive a call that appears to come from their bank’s official customer service number. Assuming that it is real, the afflicted can share sensitive details such as pin, account number or OTP. Scamsters also use fake numbers to threaten or demand fake payments while pretending to be a tax officer or police officer.
To deal with this, governments must ban collar ID spoofing completely and forced telecom operators to use anti-spuffing technologies. An effective system is known as stir/shaken technology, which verify whether the collar ID is real or not. If a number cannot be verified, the call should be marked as “suspicious” on the recipient’s screen. Telecom companies should be required to implement such systems within a certain time limit by law. Also, individuals or organizations found guilty of caller ID spoofing should be fined. It should include heavy fines and imprisonment, especially when spuofing is used for financial fraud. Governments can also create a centralized collar ID verification database so that only authorized institutions can display the official numbers.
Another necessary step is public awareness. People should be taught that banks or government agencies will never ask for personal details on the phone, even if the caller ID is official. Citizens should always disconnect the phone and call back to the official helpline number of the organization for verification. If the caller ID spoofing is not controlled, confidence in communication systems will end, as people will not believe the incoming calls. By implementing strict restrictions and implementing advanced verification technology, governments can restore confidence in telecom systems and reduce phone-based scams to a great extent.
19. Licensing for digital marketing agencies
Digital marketing is a powerful means of reaching people online, but unfortunately it has also become a weapon for the scamsters. Many fraudsters run fake advertisements on platforms like Google, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. These advertisements often promote fake job offers, investment plans, cryptocurrency scams or fake products. Since digital advertisements can be made keeping in mind the specific audiences, the victims are often carefully selected on the basis of age, location or interests. For example, unemployed youth can be targeted through fake job advertisements, while older people can be shown fake investment opportunities. Governments can fight this problem by compulsory license and registration for all digital advertising agencies. Only verified agencies should be allowed to publish paid advertisements on major platforms. Agencies should also be legally held legally responsible for advertisements promoted by them. If an agency deliberately or carelessly operates scam advertisements, they should face strict punishment including canceling licenses, heavy fines and even criminal allegations.
Digital platforms like Google and Facebook will also have to share accountability. If they allow fraud advertisements to run, they will have to face financial penalty. This will force technical companies to create a strong verification system for advertisers. Before approving any advertising campaign, they will have to demand business registration document, tax number and detailed identity check. Governments can also form a National Advertising Monitoring Authority that scans online platforms for regular scam advertisements. This authority should work closely with consumer protection agencies and cyber crime units. Citizens should also have an easy way to report direct regulators of suspected advertisements.
Licensing will also increase confidence in digital advertising. When users know that only registered agencies can publish advertisements, they will feel more secure by clicking on promotion. Businesses will also benefit, as scam advertisements currently harm real companies by creating mistrust among consumers. Therefore, license to digital marketing agencies is not just about fighting scams; This entire online advertisement is about cleaning the ecosystem. Accountability, monitoring and punishment can be reduced to a great extent.
20. Border transfer monitoring across the border
One of the biggest challenges in fighting cyber crime is that stolen money often goes out of the country in a few hours through international transfer. Scammers use several methods to transfer funds abroad, including informal channels such as online banking, cryptocurrency or hawala. Once the money crosses the limit, it becomes very difficult for the authorities to find it and get it back. This is the reason that many victims never get their money back, even though the scammer was caught later. Governments need to implement strict monitoring of transfers across the border. First, banks and payment platforms must be required to mark and stop suspicious transfer. For example, if a person suddenly sends a large amount of money abroad without any clear purpose, the transfer should be stopped for verification. The amount stolen from this small delay can be prevented from permanent disappearance.
Second, hawala and informal money transfer systems should be strictly regulated. Although hawala is illegal in many places, it operates secretly. Governments should increase monitoring, raids and prosecute people running such networks. Also, law enforcement agencies should work closely with international partners to find out the stolen funds and get it back. Cyber crime is global and cooperation between countries is necessary. Cryptocurrency transfer should also be closely monitored. Many scammers convert the stolen amount into bitcoin or other digital assets to hide their identity. Governments should expect the crypto exchanges to follow the strict No Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering rules. Anonymous wallets and irregular exchanges should be banned.
Finally, governments should create a centralized money transfer monitoring authority that receives real -time data from banks, payment gateways and financial institutions. Any suspicious transactions should be investigated immediately. If such a monitoring is done, it will be more difficult for the scammers to take the stolen amount abroad. This will reduce the motivation to cheat online, as criminals know that they will not be able to enjoy the stolen amount easily. In short, the global fight against cyber crime is one of the most important defence of cross -border transfer.
21. AI-based fraud detection systems
In the modern digital world, cybercriminals are becoming smarter and quicker in finding new ways to defraud people. Traditional fraud detection methods are often too slow to stop scams in real-time. This is where artificial intelligence (AI)-based fraud detection systems can make a huge difference. Governments should invest in national-level AI platforms that constantly monitor online activities, transaction behavior, and communication channels to detect unusual patterns that indicate fraud. For example, AI can track suspicious keywords in bulk SMS campaigns, such as phrases used in fake lottery messages, phishing links, or false loan promises. Similarly, AI can monitor banking transactions and flag unusual activities, such as multiple small withdrawals from multiple accounts that point to scam networks. Another benefit is that AI can connect the dots between multiple scam reports and identify large fraud gangs operating in different regions. If implemented on a national level, these systems can send real-time alerts to banks, telecom operators, and law enforcement agencies. For example, if a fraudulent loan app suddenly receives thousands of complaints in a short period of time, an AI system can alert authorities before the scam spreads further.
To make these systems effective, governments must ensure strong collaboration with private companies, financial institutions, and telecom networks. AI can also be combined with machine learning to learn from past scams and continuously improve detection. Of course, privacy safeguards must be in place so that the system does not misuse personal data. Overall, AI-based fraud detection systems act as digital security guards for the entire country. By catching fraud in its early stages, they can save people from losing money and reduce the burden on law enforcement. In the long run, this investment will create a safer online environment and discourage criminals from carrying out large-scale scams.
22. Whistleblower protection for reporting scams
Employees inside many companies—banks, telecom operators, IT service providers, and even digital marketing agencies—sometimes become aware of fraudulent or illegal activities. They may notice fake accounts being created, suspicious money transfers taking place, or even scam ads being approved. Unfortunately, most employees stay silent out of fear. They worry that if they report such activities, they may lose their jobs, face workplace harassment, or even be targeted by powerful scam networks. This silence allows fraud to continue unchecked. To break this cycle, governments should establish strong whistleblower protection laws specifically for cases of cyber fraud. These laws should guarantee that employees who report scam-related information will not face punishment from their employers. Instead, they should be legally protected and supported with anonymity if necessary.
Governments can also introduce reward schemes for whistleblowers. For example, if a bank employee provides evidence to expose a multi-million dollar scam, he or she can receive a percentage of the recovered funds as a reward. This not only encourages honesty but also makes insiders active participants in fighting cybercrime. Additionally, there should be a secure reporting channel—such as a confidential online portal or hotline—where whistleblowers can submit evidence without fear of exposure. Authorities should take these tips seriously and act promptly.
The United States and some European countries already have whistleblower protection laws in financial sectors, and similar regulations for cybercrime should be expanded worldwide. Protecting whistleblowers builds trust, strengthens accountability, and ensures that fraud cannot hide behind company walls. Protecting whistleblowers ensures that those who know the truth are not punished for speaking out. Instead, they become valuable allies for governments in the fight against scammers and cybercriminals.
23. Regulation of online gaming and gambling
The online gaming and gambling industry is growing rapidly, especially among young people. While genuine platforms provide entertainment and legal betting options, a large number of fake gaming and gambling apps exist solely to defraud users. These apps may lure people in with offers of making easy money, free prizes or winning jackpots. Once users deposit funds, the money disappears, or the games are programmed in such a way that players can never truly win. Scammers also use gaming platforms as a cover for money laundering. For example, illegal betting websites can circulate black money through fake winnings. Many young people fall prey to this, as these apps are designed to be addictive, and players keep spending in the hope of winning big.
To control this, governments must impose strict regulations on online gaming and gambling platforms. First, only licensed companies should be allowed to run such apps, and each license should be verified through financial regulators. Second, illegal betting apps should be banned, and app stores should be penalized for hosting them. Governments should also introduce age verification systems to protect minors from being exploited by gambling apps. The second step is to monitor in-game purchases and digital wallets associated with these apps, as scammers often hide illegal transactions within gaming payments.
Licensed platforms should be regularly audited to ensure fairness and transparency in game algorithms. Players should also have access to a complaint mechanism if they feel cheated. By regulating online gaming and gambling, governments can protect citizens from fraud, reduce addiction-related harm, and prevent criminals from using games for financial scams. In short, strict laws will separate genuine entertainment platforms from fake apps that exist only to steal money.
24. Cyber insurance regulations
As the number and complexity of online scams continue to grow, ordinary people and businesses are at serious risk of financial loss. Unfortunately, most victims never recover their stolen funds, as scammers quickly move them across borders. One solution that governments can encourage is the development of cyber insurance policies. Cyber insurance works like other types of insurance—it allows individuals and companies to recover at least part of their financial losses after a cyberattack or fraud.
Governments should make it easier for insurance companies to offer affordable cyber insurance packages. For example, a small monthly premium can protect individuals from losses from phishing, online banking fraud, or identity theft. Businesses can adopt larger policies to cover risks such as ransomware attacks, data breaches, or large-scale fraud.
However, clear rules should be established to avoid abuse. Insurance companies should carefully verify claims, but at the same time, they should not unnecessarily delay payments. Governments should set minimum standards for coverage, claim settlement timelines, and premium affordability. Cyber insurance can also reduce the long-term impact of scams on society. If victims know they can get some of their money back, they are less likely to be disappointed. Also, insurers can work with governments to collect data on cybercrime trends, which will help authorities strengthen preventive measures.
Another benefit is that insurance companies often provide policyholders with free cybersecurity services such as fraud alerts, credit monitoring, and identity protection. This can help people avoid scams altogether. By regulating and promoting cyber insurance, governments create a safety net for citizens in the digital age. Although prevention should always come first, insurance ensures that victims don’t lose everything when fraud occurs.
25. National Cyber Helpline Number
One of the biggest problems victims of online fraud face is that they don’t immediately know where to go for help. By the time they figure out how to report the scam, the stolen money has already been transferred abroad or withdrawn. To solve this, governments must establish a toll-free 24/7 national cyber helpline number dedicated to reporting online scams. This helpline should be directly linked to banks, payment gateways, and telecom operators. When a victim calls to report a fraudulent transaction, the system should immediately block the suspicious transfer before the money disappears. This real-time response can save billions in potential losses.
The helpline should also provide guidance and counseling. Many victims panic and feel embarrassed after a fraud. A supportive voice explaining the next steps—such as filing a complaint, contacting the bank, or blocking accounts—can make a huge difference. Governments can further strengthen this system by creating regional cyber response centres linked to helplines. This ensures that local police and cyber crime units are immediately informed about fraud cases in their area.
This number should be easy to remember, like 100 (police) or 108 (emergency services). It should be widely advertised so that every citizen knows where to call in case of online fraud. Over time, the data collected through helplines can help authorities identify new scam trends, hotspots, and organised networks. This will make cybercrime investigations faster and more effective. The National Cyber Helpline is like an emergency alarm system for the digital world. It provides an immediate lifeline to victims, increases the chances of recovering stolen funds, and increases public confidence in government efforts against cybercrime.
26. Biometric Security for Online Transactions
One of the most effective ways to prevent online fraud is to implement biometric security for financial transactions. Traditional security methods like passwords, PINs or even one-time passwords (OTPs) can be stolen by scammers through phishing, SIM swapping or malware. But biometric identifiers like fingerprints, facial recognition or iris scans are unique to each individual and cannot be easily copied. This makes them far more reliable for securing sensitive online activities, especially high-value transactions.
Governments can mandate that banks, digital wallets and payment platforms implement biometric verification for transactions above a certain amount. For example, while small purchases can still rely on PINs or OTPs, any transfer above a certain limit—say ₹10,000 or $200—should require biometric confirmation. This ensures that even if scammers trick someone into sharing their account details, they cannot transfer large sums of money without the physical presence of that person. To implement this effectively, national digital ID systems like Aadhaar in India or similar frameworks in other countries can be integrated with banking and e-commerce platforms. Facial recognition through smartphone cameras or fingerprint scans through biometric sensors can be used for instant authentication.
However, privacy and security measures are very important. Governments must ensure that biometric data is stored securely and is not misused. Encryption, limited data storage and strict laws against data leaks should be part of the regulation. Citizens should also be given control over their biometric usage, so that they can opt in or out of specific services. In the long run, biometric verification will not only reduce fraud but also increase customer confidence in digital payments. As more financial activities move online, biometrics will act as a digital lock and key that scammers will not be able to easily copy, creating a more secure environment for transactions.
27. Strict regulations for cyber cafes and public Wi-Fi
Cyber cafes and public Wi-Fi networks are often used by scammers because they offer anonymity and weak security. Fraudsters can carry out phishing attacks, identity theft and even online banking fraud using shared computers in cyber cafes. Similarly, unsecured public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports or railway stations allows hackers to intercept sensitive information such as passwords and credit card details. Governments must impose strict regulations for cyber cafes to prevent this. Owners should be required to verify and record the identity of each user before granting internet access. This can be done through government-issued ID cards, which are scanned and securely logged. Computer usage logs should be retained for at least a few months so that if a scam is detected, investigators can find out who used the system at that time.
Public Wi-Fi providers also need to improve security. In place of open networks where anyone can connect, users should be required to sign in with verified details. Wi-Fi operators should use strong encryption such as WPA3 to prevent hackers from eavesdropping. Additionally, governments can issue guidelines requiring public Wi-Fi networks to display warnings about safe use, such as avoiding financial transactions while connected. Regular inspection of cyber cafes should also be made mandatory. Many cafes in small towns still operate without any monitoring, making them easy hubs for anonymous fraud. If cafe owners fail to maintain proper identity logs, they should face penalties or license suspension.
Also, governments can encourage citizens to use virtual private networks (VPNs) on public networks for added security. Educational campaigns should also be run about the risks of public Wi-Fi. Strict regulations for cyber cafes and secure public Wi-Fi will significantly reduce opportunities for scammers to hide behind anonymous connections, making it easier for law enforcement to track online crimes.
28. Strong e-commerce regulations
E-commerce has become a part of everyday life, with millions of people shopping online through platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart and eBay. While this brings convenience, it has also created opportunities for fake sellers and scam shops. Many fraudulent sellers list products at attractive prices but never deliver the goods, or they send cheap counterfeits instead of genuine products. Victims often face difficulties in getting a refund, while scammers keep opening new accounts under different names.
To tackle this problem, governments must impose strict regulations for e-commerce platforms. First, all sellers must undergo mandatory verification before being allowed to list products. This should include government-issued ID checks, business registration documents and bank account verification. Platforms should be held legally accountable if they allow unverified sellers to operate. Second, there should be a mandatory refund guarantee for buyers. If a product is counterfeit, damaged, or never delivered, the platform itself—not just the seller—must refund the money to the buyer within a certain time frame. This would force e-commerce companies to monitor sellers more carefully.
Third, governments could impose penalties for platforms that repeatedly host fraudulent sellers. If marketplaces fail to remove scam accounts or repeatedly allow fake listings, they would face hefty fines. Transparency is another important factor. Platforms should be required to openly display seller ratings, complaint history, and refund track records. This would help customers make informed decisions. Regular audits of large e-commerce websites should also be conducted to ensure compliance.
Additionally, governments should set up a national e-commerce complaint cell where customers can report scams. These complaints could then be investigated by cybercrime units. Stringent regulation will not only protect buyers but also benefit genuine sellers who often lose their credibility due to fraud on the same platform. Enforcing strict regulations will ensure that e-commerce remains a trusted marketplace rather than a hunting ground for online fraudsters.
29. Mandatory reporting by social media platforms
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Telegram have become the preferred tools of scammers. Fake investment groups, phishing links, loan fraud pages and job scam accounts spread rapidly on these networks, reaching millions of users in a short time. Since these platforms make huge profits from user engagement, they are often slow to take action against fraudulent content. This negligence allows scams to flourish. Governments should pass laws that make it mandatory for social media companies to report scam-related accounts, groups and pages to the authorities within a strict timeframe—preferably within 48 hours of detection. Platforms already have advanced AI tools that can detect suspicious behaviour such as bulk messaging, fake ads and fraudulent links. The law should force them to share this data with government cybercrime units instead of simply silently deleting accounts.
Failure to comply should result in financial penalties and legal action against the platforms. This will ensure that companies prioritise user safety over profit. For example, if a fake loan scam group is found on Telegram, the platform should immediately block it and report the details—IP addresses, linked emails, phone numbers—to authorities for further investigation. Another measure is regular transparency reports. Social media companies should publish detailed reports showing how many scam accounts were removed and how many were reported to law enforcement agencies. This accountability will push platforms to act more responsibly.
Public awareness is also important. Users should be encouraged to report scam accounts directly on both the platforms and the National Cyber Crime Portal. Platforms should provide easy reporting options, not hidden menus. Mandatory reporting laws will turn social media companies from passive spectators to active participants in fighting cybercrime. With their vast data and advanced AI, these platforms can help governments shut down scams before they spread too widely.
30. Ban bulk SMS without approval
One of the most common methods used by scammers is bulk SMS messaging. These messages often claim that the recipient has won the lottery, is eligible for a quick loan, or has a job opportunity. They include links to fake websites or ask victims to call a fake number. Since bulk SMS can reach thousands of people instantly, even a small response rate is profitable for scammers. Governments should ban bulk SMS without prior approval. Telecom operators should be required to filter and block suspicious mass messages before they reach users. Only verified businesses with registered sender IDs should be allowed to send promotional SMS campaigns. For example, a real bank or company can apply for approval, but a random person should not be able to send thousands of identical texts.
If an unregistered entity attempts to send bulk SMS, telecom companies should immediately block the sender’s number and report it to authorities. Penalties for running unauthorised bulk SMS campaigns should include fines and imprisonment. To strengthen this system, a central SMS approval registry can be created, where businesses must submit templates of their promotional messages for review. This prevents scammers from disguising themselves as banks or government agencies.
Also, awareness campaigns should encourage people not to click on suspicious links received via SMS. Victims should also have an easy way to forward scam messages to national helplines for prompt action. By banning unapproved bulk SMS, the government will shut down one of the cheapest and most widely used tools of scammers. Telecom providers will also become more accountable for the messages that pass through their networks, ensuring that customers are not bombarded with fraudulent offers.
31. Fake Job Portal Regulations
Fake job portals are one of the biggest traps for unemployed youth and fresh graduates. Scammers take advantage of job seekers’ desperation to create fraudulent websites or advertisements promising high-paying jobs with very little effort. They often ask for “registration fees,” “processing fees,” or “document verification costs” before providing job confirmation. Many people lose huge sums of money due to such fake offers and in some cases sensitive personal information like Aadhaar, PAN card or bank account information is also stolen and misused. Governments need to create strict regulations for online job portals to prevent such scams.
Every company or recruiter who wants to post a vacancy must undergo identity verification, which includes submitting company registration documents, GST number, and contact information which is verified by the portal before approval. Job seekers should be able to see the “verified recruiter” badge on legitimate postings. Additionally, governments can mandate portals to keep a record of all recruiters for at least five years to help trace scammers in case of fraud complaints. Heavy fines should be imposed on portals that fail to monitor or allow fraudulent postings. Public awareness campaigns can also be run so that people understand that they should never pay money for job applications. These measures will make unemployed individuals feel more secure and make it more difficult for fraudsters to operate under fake names.
32. Fake Education and Scholarship Scam Laws
Students are often targeted by cybercriminals through fake universities, colleges and scholarship schemes. Many scammers create websites that look similar to real institutions and offer admission letters or international scholarships in exchange for large “application fees” or “visa processing fees.” Some even go further and offer fake degrees that have no legal value, seriously harming the student’s career. To protect youth from these traps, governments must impose strict laws for online education portals and scholarship providers. Every institution advertising online should be required to register with an official government body, and their accreditation should be verified before they begin operations.
Scholarship announcements should only be allowed if they are released through government-approved platforms or officially recognized educational foundations. Those running fake university or scholarship scams should be subject to harsh penalties, including imprisonment and confiscation of fraudulently acquired assets. Governments can also create a centralised verification system where students can check if a university or scholarship is authentic before applying. Implementing such regulations will make the education sector safer, protect students from financial exploitation and make fraudulent operators lose their place on the internet. Awareness programmes in schools and colleges can also help students recognise red flags such as requests for advance fees or unverified university addresses. These steps will protect the dreams and future of millions of young learners.
33. Cyber Fraud Investigation Fund
Cybercrime is growing faster than traditional policing methods, and many investigations fail due to lack of funds and advanced technology. Scammers often operate from remote locations using encrypted networks, making it extremely difficult for local police to track them without proper resources. To fight this effectively, governments must create a Cyber Fraud Investigation Fund. This dedicated fund will be used to set up advanced forensic laboratories, purchase modern software tools to track online activities, and hire ethical hackers and cybersecurity experts who understand how to detect scammers on various digital platforms. It will also support training programs for police officers and judges, and ensure they stay updated on the latest cybercrime techniques.
Victims of cyber fraud could benefit if a part of this fund is used to provide compensation in cases where money recovery is impossible. This fund should be managed by a special cybercrime authority and monitored transparently so that resources are not misused. International cooperation could also be funded through this pool, as many cybercriminals operate across borders. If governments dedicated a significant budget to investigating cyber fraud, they would strengthen law enforcement, make it easier to track scammers, and restore public confidence in digital transactions. Without such funding, cybercrime would continue to grow, as criminals take advantage of the fact that authorities lack resources.
34. Tighten laws on ransomware attacks
Ransomware is one of the most dangerous forms of cybercrime today. In it, hackers lock important files, databases or even entire systems of organizations and then demand huge sums of money in cryptocurrency to unlock them. Hospitals, power plants, banks and government institutions have been targeted, putting public safety at risk. In many cases, ransomware attacks have led to delays in medical treatment, blackouts in power supply and shutdown of essential services. Given the severity of these attacks, governments should classify ransomware as an act of terrorism rather than just cybercrime. This would allow authorities to impose the harshest penalties available, including life imprisonment for attackers and permanent bans on companies or individuals who collaborate with ransomware groups.
Governments should also make it mandatory that companies report ransomware incidents immediately rather than quietly paying the attackers, as silent payments encourage more attacks. Special cyber task forces should be formed to investigate ransomware gangs around the world in collaboration with other countries. Additionally, governments can impose strict regulations for software companies and IT service providers to maintain strong security protocols, as vulnerable systems are often exploited by attackers. By treating ransomware as terrorism, governments send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated under any circumstances, thereby protecting both national security and public safety.
35. Mandatory training for police and judges
One of the biggest weaknesses in fighting cybercrime is the lack of technical knowledge among local police officers and even some judges. Many victims complain that when they go to report a scam, police officers are unable to understand the crime, refuse to register a complaint, or delay action because they do not know how to examine digital evidence. Similarly, when cases reach the courts, some judges may not have sufficient knowledge of cyber laws or technical details to make quick and fair decisions. To address this problem, governments should introduce mandatory training programs for police officers and judges. Police academies should include cybersecurity and digital forensics in their core curriculum. Regular refresher courses should also be given to officers already serving in the field. Special workshops can be held for judges to explain how cyber fraud works, how to track digital trails, and how laws apply in such cases.
Governments can collaborate with cybersecurity experts and ethical hackers to design these programs. Certification exams should be introduced so that only trained officers can handle cybercrime complaints. Empowering police and judges with technical knowledge will ensure cases are filed more quickly, evidence is properly analyzed, and criminals face justice faster. Without such training, even the best cyber laws will remain ineffective, as those responsible for enforcement will not know how to apply them in the digital world.
36. Mandatory Cybersecurity Standards for Companies
In today’s digital economy, companies collect and store massive amounts of sensitive data such as banking details, health records, and personal information of customers. Unfortunately, many organizations do not invest enough in security measures, leaving them vulnerable to hacking, phishing, and ransomware attacks. When a company fails to protect consumer data, the burden invariably falls on innocent citizens, who lose money or suffer identity theft. This imbalance must be corrected through laws that make cybersecurity compliance mandatory. Governments should establish a national framework for cybersecurity standards that all companies, especially those handling customer data, must follow without exception.
These standards should include encryption of sensitive information, two-factor authentication for account logins, regular security audits, penetration testing, and incident reporting. If a company fails to comply with these rules and customers suffer losses, the company should be held legally responsible and compensate the victims. Penalties should not only be financial but should also include restrictions on business operations until the issue is resolved. This will ensure that businesses consider cybersecurity a top priority rather than an optional investment. Small companies can be supported by government incentives or training programs, but there should be no compromise on compliance. Just as factories cannot run without security standards, companies in the digital world should not run without cybersecurity standards. Over time, this rule will improve public trust, reduce scams, and motivate industries to innovate in secure ways. It also encourages a culture of responsibility where businesses understand that customer data is not just a resource but a trust that must be protected at all costs.
37. Ban unverified money lending apps
The rise of digital finance has brought convenience, but it has also opened the door for scammers who create fake loan apps. These apps often promise quick and easy loans, but instead steal personal data, access mobile contacts, and harass users for the return of money they never actually received. Many victims, especially unemployed youth or financially stressed individuals, fall into this trap as they are desperate for a small loan. Governments should completely ban unverified loan applications to protect people. Strict regulations should be put in place requiring approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) or the central financial authority of a country before any money lending app can be launched. This approval process should include background verification of the company, assessment of financial capacity, and compliance with data privacy regulations.
Only licensed banks and registered non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) should be allowed to operate loan platforms. In addition, app stores should also be held responsible for removing unauthorized apps immediately after they are identified by authorities. In addition, governments can launch a public awareness campaign that educates citizens about the dangers of using unverified loan apps and provide a list of approved platforms. Cyber police units should be given powers to investigate such apps and block them immediately, even if they operate from foreign servers. This regulation will not only protect individuals from fraud but also maintain stability in the financial system. In a digital world where financial scams are on the rise, the government must ensure that access to loans is safe, transparent, and free from exploitation.
38. Tracking virtual phone numbers
Scammers are increasingly relying on virtual numbers generated through internet-based VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services. These numbers make it easy for fraudsters to hide their real location and identity. Victims often receive fake calls from numbers that appear to be local but are controlled by criminals sitting in another country. Without strong regulation, these virtual numbers allow scammers to operate fearlessly, making it nearly impossible to trace. To prevent this abuse, governments should enact laws that require all virtual numbers to be linked to real identities and verified through official documents such as Aadhaar, PAN, Social Security or passport. VoIP service providers should be licensed and required to maintain a secure database of customer identities. If a number is misused for fraud, authorities should be able to trace the number to the real person or company that registered it. Additionally, international cooperation is also necessary as many VoIP services operate across borders.
Governments can sign agreements to share information immediately when a scam call comes from another country. Telecom operators and internet providers should also be ordered to block suspicious numbers reported by cybercrime cells. Citizens should have an easy way to report scam calls, and once verified, those numbers should be deactivated immediately. In addition, strict penalties should be imposed on VoIP companies that fail to verify their users. By enacting this law, the government can take away one of the biggest tools used by scammers to remain invisible. This will not only reduce the number of fraudulent calls but will also help investigators take prompt action to catch the real culprits behind these digital crimes.
39. Regulation of online dating and matrimonial sites
Romance scams have become one of the fastest growing forms of cyber fraud. Many innocent people, especially women and emotionally vulnerable individuals, are targeted through fake profiles on dating and matrimonial websites. Fraudsters pretend to be real partners, build trust over weeks or months, and then emotionally manipulate victims into sending money or sharing private information. Governments should create strict regulations for dating and matrimonial platforms to prevent such crimes. First, these platforms should be legally required to verify the identity of each user through government-issued documents before allowing profile creation. Fake or incomplete profiles should be flagged and removed immediately. Second, platforms must provide fraud alerts and warnings to users when suspicious activity is detected.
For example, if a person is asking for money or avoids video calls, the system should notify the victim of potential fraud. Third, websites should maintain a dedicated fraud-reporting channel where victims can complain directly, and the company should take immediate action. Failure to take action will result in fines or the platform’s operating license being revoked. Governments can also create a regulatory body that regularly audits these websites to ensure compliance. In addition, scammers caught misusing such platforms should be given strict punishment, including long prison sentences and asset confiscation. Public awareness campaigns can also play a role by teaching people not to share money or sensitive documents with strangers online. With proper laws, dating and matrimonial sites can remain safe spaces for real relationships rather than a hunting ground for fraudsters.
40. Stronger Cyber Espionage and Identity Theft Laws
Identity theft is one of the most dangerous forms of cybercrime as it allows fraudsters to commit a number of crimes in someone else’s name. Using stolen Aadhaar numbers, PAN cards, social security IDs or passport details, criminals can open fake bank accounts, apply for loans or even commit international crimes, while the innocent person has to bear the legal consequences. Additionally, cyber espionage—in which foreign actors steal sensitive government or corporate data—poses a major threat to national security. Therefore, governments should enact strict laws treating identity theft and cyber espionage as serious crimes on par with terrorism or organised crime. Any misuse of official identity documents in cases of fraud should result in long prison sentences, heavy fines and confiscation of property acquired through illegal means.
Companies and institutions that leak such data negligently should also be held accountable. Punishment in cases of espionage should include life imprisonment, especially if critical infrastructure or defence data is targeted. Governments should also set up advanced cyber forensic laboratories to track such crimes and strengthen international cooperation treaties for the extradition of criminals hiding in other countries. Citizens should be encouraged to protect their digital identities by using strong authentication methods, while banks and companies should be forced to introduce additional verification before processing financial transactions. Only through strong laws, swift punishment and awareness can the growing threat of identity theft and espionage be controlled.
41. Real-time scam alert system
A very effective way to protect citizens from cyber fraud is to build a real-time scam alert system that works through a government-managed mobile application and SMS service. This system will work just like emergency weather alerts but will focus solely on cybercrime. Whenever law enforcement agencies, financial institutions or cybercrime monitoring units detect a new type of fraud—such as fake loan apps, phishing websites, OTP scams or investment frauds—the information should be immediately communicated to the public through alerts. These alerts should explain the method of fraud in simple language, highlight the red flags to look out for, and instruct what a citizen should do if he or she encounters fraud. For example, if scammers start sending fake UPI payment requests, the alert could warn citizens to never accept requests from unknown people.
The system should also be interactive, allowing citizens to report suspicious numbers, emails or apps, which can be verified and shared with others. Real-time alerts could save millions of people from falling prey to scams before they spread widely. In addition, the app could provide a scam database, which can be searched by phone number, app name or website link, so people can check if they are dealing with a known fraudster. To encourage adoption, the government should make the app free, easy to use and pre-installed on all new phones, and also provide multilingual support for rural users. Partnerships with telcos and banks could help ensure that even those who do not have smartphones receive SMS alerts. Overall, this measure creates a strong shield of awareness that works faster than scams can spread, and helps citizens stay one step ahead of fraudsters.
42. Ban selling personal data without consent
One of the biggest reasons for the rise in cyber fraud is the illegal sale of personal data by companies and data brokers. Today, every digital activity—installing an app, shopping online, using social media—generates data such as names, phone numbers, emails, browsing habits, and financial details. This data is collected without the individual’s knowledge or consent and often sold to third parties. Scammers then buy such data and target victims with customized fraudulent attempts, such as fake loan offers, insurance scams, or phishing emails. To prevent this, governments must pass stringent laws making it illegal to sell, trade, or share personal data without the user’s explicit consent. Consent must be clear and informed, not hidden in long unreadable terms and conditions. Companies violating this rule should be subject to heavy fines, license suspension, and even criminal liability.
To ensure compliance, governments can establish data protection authorities with powers to audit businesses and investigate suspected data leaks. Citizens should also have the right to request that companies permanently delete their personal data if they no longer wish to share it. Additionally, telecom operators and banks should be banned from selling customer data to marketing agencies. By preventing the unregulated sale of personal data, the supply chain that feeds millions of phone numbers and emails to scammers will be broken. This will make it much harder for cybercriminals to target people at random, reducing the frequency and success rate of scams. The protection of personal data is not only related to privacy, but also to the safety of people’s money and trust in the digital economy.
43. Strict regulations for influencers and endorsements
In today’s digital world, influencers and celebrities have a huge amount of power over public opinion. Scammers often exploit this by creating fake influencer profiles or even paying lesser-known influencers to promote fraudulent investment schemes, crypto scams or fake shopping websites. Because followers trust influencers, people invest their hard-earned money without suspecting fraud. To combat this, governments should impose strict regulations on influencer marketing. First, any paid promotion, whether for products or financial services, should be clearly disclosed as an advertisement, not personal advice. Second, influencers should be required to verify that the product, app or company they are endorsing is genuine and registered with the appropriate authorities.
If an influencer knowingly or recklessly promotes a scam, he or she should be held legally responsible and face heavy penalties, including fines, bans from social media platforms, and even prison sentences in severe cases. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook should also be required to monitor fraudulent promotions and remove them immediately after they are reported. Influencers who build trust with the public should realize their responsibility; their actions can either protect or harm millions of people. Strict government monitoring will make influencers more careful and ensure that they do not become tools in the hands of scammers. Such laws will also encourage fair digital advertising practices and protect citizens from falling into scams disguised as celebrity advice.
44. Cyber Blacklist for Employees
Many scams are not only run by unknown criminals sitting abroad, but also involve insiders—employees of banks, telecom companies, IT firms or payment processors who leak sensitive customer data or provide technical support to scammers. For example, a dishonest bank employee may sell account details to fraudsters, or a telecom staff member may issue duplicate SIM cards to scammers for OTP theft. Such insiders are extremely dangerous as they bypass security systems from the inside. To prevent this, governments should introduce a cyber blacklist system. Any employee found assisting scammers, leaking data or engaging in cybercrime should be permanently blacklisted from working in critical industries such as banking, telecom, cybersecurity and government IT services.
This list should be shared among all companies in the sector so that blacklisted individuals cannot be rehired under another employer. This process should also include fair investigation and appeal rights to ensure that no innocent employee is wrongly blacklisted. Additionally, background checks should be mandatory for hiring employees in sensitive roles, and companies should immediately report any cyber misconduct committed by their employees to the authorities. The existence of a cyber blacklist will act as a strong deterrent, as employees will know that one wrong action can permanently end their career. This policy will not only protect organizations from insider threats but will also strengthen public trust in digital financial systems.
45. Special prison units for cybercriminals
Cybercriminals are known to continue their illegal activities even from prison. They use smuggled smartphones, internet devices or even corrupt prison staff to run scams, call victims and coordinate with external networks. Unlike traditional criminals, cybercriminals only need an internet connection and a phone to continue their crime spree, which makes normal prisons unsuitable for keeping them safely. To address this problem, governments should set up high-security prison units specifically for cybercriminals. These units should have advanced digital surveillance, strict restrictions on mobile devices, jammers to block network signals and constant monitoring of inmates’ communications. Only supervised, recorded calls should be allowed, and all digital correspondence should be checked by cybersecurity officers.
Prison staff should also be given special training to detect and prevent high-tech smuggling. Additionally, rehabilitation programs should be designed to positively utilize cybercriminals’ skills, such as ethical hacking or cybersecurity awareness campaigns, under controlled supervision. However, repeat offenders and masterminds should face strict isolation. Creating such specialized prison facilities ensures that once scammers are caught, they cannot continue to harm society while serving their sentence. This move will also send a strong message that cybercrime will be dealt with as seriously as terrorism or organized crime, giving people more confidence in the justice system.
46. Regular cybersecurity audits of government offices
Government offices hold some of the most sensitive data in the world, including citizen records, tax information, defense secrets, financial transactions, and health data. Because of this, hackers often target these offices as a way to steal or leak classified information. To mitigate such risks, governments should mandate regular cybersecurity audits across all departments. Audits involve carefully examining security infrastructure, including firewalls, data storage methods, user authentication systems, and internal employee access policies. These audits should not be conducted casually but should adhere to strict national or international cybersecurity standards. Independent cybersecurity agencies or third-party experts should be involved so that the process remains fair and effective. For example, if the database of a government tax department is left open due to outdated software, hackers can easily exploit this weakness. Through audits, such vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed before an actual attack occurs.
Additionally, audits should also include simulated cyberattacks, often called penetration testing, where ethical hackers try to break into systems to expose vulnerabilities. This helps officials understand how resilient their digital systems are. Governments should also hold officials accountable when negligence is discovered. Often a breach occurs because the official ignored updates, used weak passwords, or failed to implement data security protocols. By linking negligence with penalties such as fines, suspension, or removal from duty, officials will take cyber hygiene seriously. Furthermore, these audits should focus not only on technology but also on human error, which is a major factor in cyberattacks. Training government employees on safe digital practices should be a part of each audit. Ultimately, mandatory cybersecurity audits ensure that public data remains secure, increase citizens’ trust in the government, and significantly reduce the chances of sensitive information falling into the hands of scammers or enemy states.
47. Ban deepfake scams
The rise of artificial intelligence has given rise to deepfakes, which are realistic but fake audio, video, or images created using AI tools. Although this technology can have positive uses in entertainment or education, its misuse by scammers is on the rise. Fraudsters create deepfake videos of celebrities or CEOs to promote fake investments, trick employees into transferring money, or lure individuals into a scam. For example, cases have already been reported where employees received fake video calls from their “boss” instructing them to transfer money, but later realized it was a deepfake. Due to such risks, governments should create clear laws that ban the malicious use of deepfakes for fraud.
This involves two layers: regulation of AI tools and criminalization of misuse. AI companies that create software capable of generating deepfakes should be required to build watermarks or detection systems into their technology so that deepfakes can be easily identified. Governments should also invest in research to develop AI-powered deepfake detectors that can be used by law enforcement agencies. On the criminal side, strict penalties should be implemented for those who create or distribute deepfakes with fraudulent intent. For example, impersonating a public figure to defraud investors should attract the same punishment as financial fraud. Additionally, companies and social media platforms must take responsibility for monitoring and promptly removing harmful deepfake content. Public awareness campaigns are also necessary so that people can know whether a video or audio is real or not. Just like phishing emails once became a common cyber threat, deepfake scams have now become the new frontier, and if governments do not act quickly, they can cause widespread financial losses and reputation damage. Strict restrictions and robust detection technology are the only way to prevent deepfakes from becoming a mainstream tool of cybercriminals.
48. National Reward Scheme for Catching Scammers
One of the main reasons cyber criminals thrive is that very few people report them, and even fewer actively help law enforcement agencies catch them. Citizens are often hesitant because they fear retaliation, believe nothing will happen, or have no incentive to come forward. To address this problem, governments should introduce a national reward scheme that offers monetary compensation or other benefits to individuals who provide actionable clues that help catch scammers. This system will not only encourage informers but also create a culture where people actively participate in fighting cybercrime.
For example, if a person identifies a fraudulent call center or provides evidence about an online scammer, and this information leads to an arrest, that person should receive a financial reward. These rewards can be structured according to the severity of the crime—for smaller scams, modest rewards, and for large-scale fraud networks, higher payouts. This model has already proven successful in other areas of law enforcement, such as anti-terrorism reward programs or tax fraud whistleblower schemes.
Apart from money, rewards can also include job opportunities, security protection or official recognition. This will motivate tech-savvy individuals, ethical hackers and even employees working inside scam companies to come forward. To prevent abuse of the scheme, governments should carefully verify leads before offering rewards. Anonymous reporting channels should also be established, so that whistleblowers do not face threats. Overall, such a program will significantly enhance detection and prosecution of scammers by making common citizens partners with law enforcement. Cybercrime is a mass threat and without public participation, governments will always fall behind. The reward scheme bridges this gap and motivates citizens to actively contribute to catching fraudsters.
49. Cybercrime records database
Just as many countries maintain sex offender registries to protect communities, there should also be a national cybercrime records database for all convicted cybercriminals. Scammers often repeat their crimes by moving from one company or bank to another. By creating a centralized database accessible to financial institutions, businesses, and government agencies, organizations can check if a person has a previous record of cybercrime before hiring him or giving him access to sensitive systems.
This database should include details such as the offender’s name, photograph, type of crime, details of conviction, and sanctions imposed on them. For example, if someone has been convicted of identity theft or hacking, banks should know not to hire them in cybersecurity or financial roles. Similarly, telecom companies should avoid hiring such individuals in customer data departments. The database should also be integrated with international cybercrime records, as many scammers operate across borders.
To protect privacy, only relevant authorities and industries should have full access, while the general public version can only display limited information. Governments should also ensure that this system is kept up to date, as outdated records can cause problems for both employers and ex-offenders trying to reform. Importantly, there should be penalties for companies that knowingly hire cybercriminals for sensitive tasks. On the other hand, rehabilitated offenders can be given some leniency after a long period of good conduct, similar to the process of erasing criminal records in some cases.
The cybercrime database creates accountability and makes it much harder for repeat offenders to find opportunities to exploit organizations. It also acts as a deterrent, as scammers will know that once convicted, their record will follow them for life, preventing them from easily re-entering society without any restrictions.
50. Mandatory Cyber Ethics Education
The fight against cybercrime cannot be won with technology and laws alone. It requires building a culture of responsibility, especially among the younger generation. That is why governments should make cyber ethics education mandatory in schools, colleges, and even business institutions. Cyber ethics refers to the ethical principles and legal responsibilities of using the Internet and digital technologies. Many young people today engage in unethical online behavior—such as hacking social media accounts, spreading fake news, or committing fraud through petty tricks—without realizing that these are serious crimes with legal consequences.
By introducing a structured cyber ethics course, students will learn about safe Internet practices, privacy protection, intellectual property rights, and the dangers of participating in scams. These lessons should not be theoretical but supported by real-life examples of cybercriminals who faced imprisonment for their actions. Teaching ethics early will help young people understand that anonymity online does not mean immunity.
At the college and professional level, cyber ethics should be further advanced, and focus should be on the responsibilities of IT employees, software developers, and digital entrepreneurs. Since many cyber crimes are committed by technically skilled individuals misusing their knowledge, ethical training should be emphasized along with technical education. Governments can also mandate refresher training for employees in sensitive industries such as banking, IT, and telecommunications.
Furthermore, this education should extend beyond classrooms to public awareness campaigns, so that parents and common citizens can also learn about cyber responsibility. Just as road safety is taught to reduce accidents, cyber ethics should be taught to reduce online crimes. Over time, a generation raised with an awareness of digital responsibility will act as a natural defense against cyber fraud. This long-term preventive approach is as important as laws and technology because it builds a responsible digital society from the grassroots level.
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