gdpr-cookie-consent domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/u570418163/domains/altechbloggers.com/public_html/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6131Information and Communication Technology has become an integral part of modern civilization, permeating every aspect of our daily lives. The spread of digital technologies has brought positive as well as negative changes in human life. In particular, the Internet has affected children’s rights globally. Information communication technology has provided a child with new tools to develop various aspects of his personality not only educationally but also has some negative impacts on children in the form of various digital violence against them.
Cyber crime against children has become a widespread issue globally, covering a wide range of malicious activities such as cyberbullying, online harassment, grooming, sextortion, child sexual abuse, etc. The protection of children and adolescents of our country in cyberspace should be given utmost importance. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of cyber crimes in India, and examines various types of crimes, legislative frameworks and judicial approaches aimed at protecting children in the digital age.
In today’s world, social media, financial transactions, mobile transactions and other forms of communication and connection are completely dependent on the digital space. As the dependence on the internet is increasing due to innovation in technological development. In the modern world, the internet is widely used for various purposes, which make the lives of people more pleasant and enjoyable. Every industry including railways, education, research, space, communication, health, banking, aviation, social media and others are completely dominated by the internet or gadgets with internet access. Every innovation or technology changes life with positivity but it also has some bad effects. Cybercrime is a new type of crime for everyone around the world.
According to the Information Technology Act, it is any illegal behavior carried out through or on computers, the internet or other technologies. Technologically skilled criminals use the internet to carry out a variety of unlawful acts. Using a more detailed definition, cybercrime can be defined as any unlawful conduct in which computers or the internet are used as a tool, target or both. Cybercrime is an uncontrollable evil caused by the misuse of the increasing dependence on computers in modern life. The use of computers and related technologies in daily life is increasing rapidly and has become a necessity that eases the convenience of users. It is an unlimited, irrational medium. Cyberstalking, cyber terrorism, email spoofing, email bombing, cyber pornography, cyber defamation and other recently developed cyber crimes are some of its examples. Many traditional crimes can also be classified as cybercrimes if these crimes are committed using computers or the Internet.
Our increasing dependence on the digital world for work, entertainment, socialization, finance and communication is causing increasing concern and difficulty. Crimes or illegal activities that take place on or using one or more components or mediums of the Internet are known as cybercrimes. Any criminal offense on the web that includes illegal financial transactions, harassment, online child sexual abuse, pornography, cyber terrorism, stealing or leaking personal information, posting hate messages for violence or riots using Internet mediums such as email, chat, websites, apps, etc.
Cybercrime is a broad category of illegal activity that is becoming a major threat and source of problem for the modern world. In the digital age, the number of online crimes and legal violations is increasing daily. Cybercrime can be classified into two categories such as ‘property crimes’ and ‘crimes against person’. The following fall under the category of crimes against people: cyberstalking, cyberbullying, child pornography, leaking of private pictures or videos, illegal transactions, identity theft, scams, fraud and copyright infringement.
Cybercrime against children has been a growing concern globally and India is no exception. The proliferation of digital technologies and increasing access to the internet among children has unfortunately provided cyber predators with more opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities and target minors for various forms of abuse and exploitation. According to NCRB data, there were 1,823 cases of cybercrime against minors in 2022, compared to 1,376 a year earlier. These crimes include 416 other cyber-related crimes, 158 cases of cyberstalking and bullying, and 1,171 cases of distribution of cyberpornography or objectionable material.
Cyberspace has complex effects on children, with both beneficial and adverse effects. Although the Internet provides numerous educational, social and recreational opportunities, it also exposes children to various risks and challenges. Some of the key aspects of the impact of cyberspace on children are as follows:
Positive Impacts:
1. Access to Information and Education: Cyberspace provides children with vast resources and information, helping them gain access to educational content, online courses and pedagogical resources. It facilitates self-directed learning and supports academic achievement.
2. Social Connectivity: Children can connect with peers, family members and communities globally through social media platforms, messaging apps and online forums. This promotes social interactions, friendships and cultural exchange, fostering social development and a sense of belonging.
3. Creativity and Expression: Online platforms provide children with the opportunity to express themselves creatively through art, writing, music and other forms of digital content creation. They can share their talents, ideas and perspectives with a wider audience, thereby boosting confidence and creativity.
4. Entertainment and Recreation: Cyberspace offers a plethora of entertainment options, including online games, streaming services and digital media content. These activities provide opportunities for relaxation, enjoyment and leisure and entertainment.
5. Learning and Skill Development: Interactive educational games, simulations and virtual learning environments help children develop critical thinking, problem-solving and digital literacy skills. They can learn coding, programming and STEM subjects in engaging and interactive ways.
Negative Impacts:
1. Cyberbullying and harassment: Children are vulnerable to online abuse, trolling and cyberbullying, which can have a detrimental effect on their mental and emotional health. Negative interactions on social media platforms or messaging apps can lead to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem.
2. Exposure to inappropriate content: The Internet exposes children to inappropriate, violent or sexually explicit content for their age, including pornography, hate speech and graphic images. Exposure to such content can desensitize children, distort their perceptions and pose a threat to their mental and emotional well-being.
3. Privacy and security risks: Children may inadvertently share personal information online, leading to privacy violations, identity theft and cyberstalking. They may fall prey to online scams, phishing attacks or malicious software that compromise their digital safety and security.
4. Addiction and screen time: Excessive screen time and internet use can contribute to addiction, sedentary behaviour and sleep disturbances in children. Spending too much time online can impact their physical health, social interactions and academic performance.
5. Online predators and grooming: Children may face online predators who use deceptive tactics to groom and exploit them for sexual purposes. This may lead to incidents of online sexual abuse, sextortion or trafficking, posing significant risks to their safety and well-being.
6. Digital divide: Inequalities in internet access, digital literacy and technological resources contribute to the digital divide among children from different socio-economic backgrounds. Children deprived of access to cyberspace may face inequalities in education, opportunities and social inclusion. Overall, while cyberspace offers numerous benefits and opportunities for children, it also presents significant challenges and risks. It becomes very important to discuss cyber crimes that are increasing day by day.
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