Dipak Kurmi
Cybercrime has emerged as one of the most pressing issues in Assam, reflecting a broader global trend of rising digital threats. As our daily lives become increasingly intertwined with advanced technology—from digital banking and online shopping to social media interactions—the risks associated with cybercrime grow exponentially. Cybercriminals are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to exploit the systems we rely on for convenience and security. This trend is equally concerning in India, where the rising number of cybercrime cases each year underscores the need for more effective public and governmental efforts to address and prevent these threats.
The Rising Tide of Cybercrime: In Assam, despite ongoing efforts to combat cybercrime by the Assam Police and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), significant challenges persist. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the number of reported cybercrime cases surged from 1,733 in 2022 to 7,621 in 2023. This sharp increase in cases is alarming, particularly given the state’s low conviction rate of just over 4%. This discrepancy highlights the magnitude of the problem and the urgent need for a more coordinated and effective response to combat this growing menace.
Related Posts:
Recent actions by the Assam Police illustrate their commitment to addressing cybercrime. In June 2024, the police arrested two individuals in Karimganj for selling fake cryptocurrencies through the BitForex app. The operation resulted in the recovery of Rs 50 lakh in cash and other incriminating materials, signaling a significant crackdown on financial fraud. Additionally, a major breakthrough occurred in May 2024 when 14 cybercriminals were apprehended in Morigaon and Guwahati. This operation led to the seizure of 362 SIM cards, 11 PAN cards, 50 bank passbooks, 25 ATM cards, three laptops, and 34 mobile phones. These arrests disrupted a major cybercrime network, demonstrating the Assam Police’s dedication to combating this escalating threat.
Strengthening Cybercrime Response: The establishment of the Cyber Crime Cell at the CID Headquarters in Ulubari, Guwahati, represents a significant advancement in managing complex cybercrime cases. This unit is equipped to handle sophisticated crimes such as social media fraud, email hacking, and financial fraud—areas where district police and local law enforcement agencies may lack specialized expertise. The creation of this cell marks a strategic approach to modern cybercrime, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the state’s capacity to tackle these challenges. Former Director General of Police Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta has emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step toward improving Assam’s ability to combat digital crime effectively.
In 2021, the launch of the Cyber Forensic Lab cum Training Centre marked a major advancement in Assam’s forensic capabilities. This center not only enhances forensic capabilities but also provides officer training with the latest tools. The introduction of Cybercrime First Responder Kits to police stations in high-cybercrime areas represents a substantial investment in technology. Each kit, costing Rs 13 lakh, includes advanced tools for digital evidence collection and analysis—crucial for investigating cybercrime and prosecuting offenders.
The launch of the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System has also been transformative. The 24/7 help desk, accessible through the helpline number 1930, provides immediate support to victims of financial fraud, enabling swift action to block fraudulent transactions. Since its launch, this system has prevented losses of over Rs 1,200 crore across more than 4.7 lakh complaints. This proactive measure has effectively protected many individuals from financial harm, underscoring the state’s commitment to tackling cybercrime with a forward-thinking strategy.
Evolving Legal Framework: A robust legal framework is essential for effectively addressing cybercrime. The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act 2000) serves as a cornerstone of India’s legal system for combating cyber offenses. Key provisions of the IT Act 2000 include Section 43, which imposes penalties for unauthorized access to computer systems and data theft; Section 66, which prescribes imprisonment and fines for dishonest cyber activities; and Section 67, which addresses the publication of obscene content online. Sections 4 and 5 ensure the legal validity of electronic records and digital signatures, making them admissible in court. These provisions are vital for strengthening the legal framework for digital investigations in an era of increasingly sophisticated cybercrime.
The introduction of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, which replaces the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, underscores the importance of thorough forensic evidence collection for serious offenses. Section 176 of BNSS emphasizes the significance of digital evidence, allowing court summonses to be issued in either written or encrypted electronic form. Similarly, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which replaces the Indian Penal Code, 1860, takes a firm stance on the integrity of electronic records. Section 210 penalizes individuals who intentionally withhold or fail to produce electronic records when required by a court, while Section 201 ensures that public servants who falsify electronic records face serious consequences. These provisions highlight the crucial role of electronic evidence in modern legal and investigative processes, particularly in tackling cybercrimes.
The Collective Effort Required: Addressing cybercrime is not solely the responsibility of the police. It requires a collective effort involving the legal community, the general public, and other government agencies. The legal community must be adept at handling digital evidence and navigating the complexities of cyber law to ensure effective prosecution. Public awareness is crucial; individuals must be educated about online safety and encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly. Government investment in infrastructure, training, and technology is essential to keeping pace with evolving cyber threats and supporting law enforcement efforts.
The global and national nature of cybercrime adds another layer of complexity. Cybercriminals often operate across international borders, leveraging global connectivity to orchestrate attacks. This requires collaboration with international agencies and adaptation to global cybercrime trends. Within India, cybercriminal networks often span multiple states, necessitating coordination between state and central authorities. Local stakeholders must stay informed about both international and national cybercrime trends and technologies. Participation in national forums and sharing intelligence across state lines are crucial for effectively addressing and combating the evolving digital threats. Strengthening these collaborative efforts will enhance Assam’s ability to tackle cybercrime and adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape.
The escalating battle against cybercrime in Assam reveals a crucial truth: combating this menace requires more than just advanced technology and law enforcement. As digital threats become increasingly sophisticated and global in scope, Assam must foster a united front that includes the police, the legal community, the public and international partners. This collective effort—grounded in strong legal frameworks, proactive measures, and cross-border collaboration—will be essential to securing a safer digital future for Assam. The path forward demands vigilance, adaptability, and a shared commitment to outsmarting the evolving threats of the cyber world. (The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
