Cyberspace, the term first coined by the American-Canadian writer William Gibson in 1984, primarily includes computer systems and related software that ensure connectivity of telecommunication systems and their constituent data. In today’s world of fast-changing technology, individuals are dependent on gadgets, technology and the resultant networks, not only in their personal lives, but also in professional spheres. This creates dangers of intrusion in data systems. Concerns related to privacy are, therefore, not unfounded.
Cybercriminals, whose intention is to make fast money by playing on the fears of individuals and organisations, resort to extortion at times. Their activities can endanger the reputation of people and institutions. The use of sophisticated technologies by terror groups, organised gangs of criminals — many of them involved in violent activities — and other illicit agents is a national security threat. With rapid digitisation, almost all developmental activities of the government face a variety of threats.
Cybercriminals, whose intention is to make fast money by playing on the fears of individuals and organisations, resort to extortion at times. Their activities can endanger the reputation of people and institutions. The use of sophisticated technologies by terror groups, organised gangs of criminals — many of them involved in violent activities — and other illicit agents is a national security threat. With rapid digitisation, almost all developmental activities of the government face a variety of threats.
While acts of cybercrime are often an end in itself, most such activity — ransomware attacks, cyber extortion, phishing, hacking — is also an attractive financial proposition for organised gangs and terrorists. There have been reports of drug traffickers using the dark net and social media to conduct their activities. The net has also become a place for training in fabricating IEDs and obtaining weapons and explosives and money laundering through the use of cryptocurrency.
