Cybercrime in Kerala Surges 11-Fold in Eight Years, Honeytrap Cases Account for 20%
The surge in cybercrime in the Kerala is alarming, marking an elevenfold increase in just eight years. From 283 cases in 2016, the number rose significantly to 3,155 in the previous year. What’s particularly concerning is that over 20% of these cases fall under the category of honeytrap scams. These honeytrap schemes typically involve scammers creating fake profiles on social media platforms, often featuring attractive individuals. The scammers befriend their targets through seemingly harmless conversations, eventually escalating to video calls. During these video calls, they record private moments and conversations and then use the captured content to blackmail their victims, demanding money. In many instances, these scammers pose as police or cyber cell officials, creating an added layer of fear for the victims. The scams often lead individuals to part with significant sums of money or even pledge assets out of desperation to protect their reputation. The majority of these scammers operate from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, making it challenging for law enforcement to track them down due to the use of fake information.
To avoid falling victim to these honeytrap scams, individuals are advised to exercise caution on social media. Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers, engaging in chat conversations with unknown individuals, and sharing personal information or compromising images online. Additionally, refraining from clicking on suspicious links and maintaining general online hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to these cybercrimes. Authorities have established a helpline (1930) to report cybercrimes and seek assistance. It’s essential for individuals to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures in the digital realm to protect themselves from the rising threat of cyber scams. As the numbers indicate a sharp increase in cybercrime cases, the need for public awareness, education, and effective law enforcement measures becomes more pressing.
