Cyber Crime: A Major Concern

Abstract

In today’s world there are large number of people who are dependent on computer and internet. This has lead to creation of a vast cyber space. Internet is a tool which provides many services to the people like online learning, online ticketing, online marketing, online banking etc. There are also many undesirable activities which are evolved from the internet. These days Internet is used as a tool for committing serious crimes and offences which are referred to as cyber crimes. A cyber crime is an illegal activity which is carried out through a computer or a network. Any person, government or property can be a victim of cyber crime. It can be committed by getting unauthorized access to a computer or network, stealing personal information, installation of virus, causing disruption of services, hacking, fishing, forgery, defamation etc. A cyber crime may cause any financial or non –financial loss to a person. The hackers can steal the sensitive information and use it to make gains. Cyber crime is coming up as a global issue which is a hindrance in the development of nation. A high priority should be given to the security and privacy of the users. In India the cyber laws are contained in the Information Technology Act 2000.The Government has also set up many cyber crime cells for regulating the cyber activities. Though there are many cyber laws acting in force but it is also the duty of an individual to use the computer or internet in the most responsible and safe manner.