Types of Cyber Crimes
Comprehensive guide to different types of cybercrimes, their impact, and prevention strategies. Stay informed to protect yourself and your family from digital threats.
Cybercrime Impact in India
Financial Loss
Lost in 2024 due to cyber fraud
Cases Reported
Cybercrime cases in 2024
Growth Rate
Year-over-year increase
Recovery Rate
Of lost funds recovered
Common Types of Cyber Crimes
Financial Fraud
Online scams, card cloning, fake loan offers targeting your money and financial assets.
Common Examples
- UPI fraud and payment app scams
- Credit card cloning and skimming
- Fake loan and investment schemes
- Online shopping fraud
- Cryptocurrency scams
- Banking phishing attacks
Prevention Tips
- Never share OTP or PIN with anyone
- Verify payment links before clicking
- Use official banking apps only
- Enable transaction alerts
- Check bank statements regularly
- Be cautious of investment offers
Identity Theft
Stolen Aadhaar, PAN, or banking credentials used for fraudulent activities.
Common Examples
- Aadhaar card misuse
- PAN card fraud
- Social media impersonation
- Bank account takeover
- Credit card application fraud
- Government document forgery
Prevention Tips
- Never share identity documents online
- Use strong passwords for all accounts
- Enable 2FA on all platforms
- Monitor credit reports regularly
- Secure physical documents
- Be cautious of verification requests
Social Engineering
Psychological manipulation through calls or messages to extract sensitive information.
Common Examples
- Tech support scams
- Banking verification calls
- Job offer frauds
- Romance scams
- Charity fraud
- Prize and lottery scams
Prevention Tips
- Verify caller identity independently
- Never share personal info over phone
- Hang up on suspicious calls
- Research before trusting offers
- Be skeptical of urgent requests
- Educate family members
Cyber Harassment
Threats, abuse, defamation, and bullying conducted through digital platforms.
Common Examples
- Online stalking and threats
- Social media harassment
- Revenge porn and sextortion
- Cyberbullying of children
- Workplace digital harassment
- Doxxing and privacy violations
Prevention Tips
- Block and report harassers
- Adjust privacy settings
- Document all evidence
- Report to platform moderators
- Seek legal help if needed
- Maintain digital boundaries
Data Breaches
Unauthorized access and leaking of personal or company data to malicious actors.
Common Examples
- Corporate data theft
- Government database breaches
- Healthcare data leaks
- Educational institution breaches
- Financial data exposure
- Personal information sales
Prevention Tips
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Enable data encryption
- Regular security updates
- Monitor account activity
- Use VPN on public networks
- Be cautious with data sharing
Hacking & Malware
Unauthorized access to systems and malicious software designed to cause harm.
Common Examples
- Ransomware attacks
- System intrusions
- Botnet infections
- Keylogger malware
- Remote access trojans
- Website defacements
Prevention Tips
- Install reputable antivirus software
- Keep systems updated
- Avoid suspicious downloads
- Use firewall protection
- Regular backup important data
- Be cautious of email attachments
Been a Victim of Cybercrime?
If you've been affected by any of these cybercrimes, don't panic. Follow these immediate steps and report the incident to the authorities.
1. Document
Save all evidence including screenshots, emails, and transaction details
2. Secure
Change passwords, enable 2FA, and secure your accounts immediately
3. Report
File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in and inform your bank
Stay Protected & Informed
Learn more about cybersecurity, understand your legal rights, and get expert guidance to protect yourself from cyber threats.