WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram Targeted by Cybercriminals: MHA annual report 2023-24

Messaging applications like WhatsApp and popular social media platforms Telegram and Instagram continue to top the list of targets for cyber fraudsters, according to a detailed report by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The report sheds light on the increasing frequency of cybercrimes targeting these platforms.

In the first quarter of 2024 alone, a staggering 43,797 complaints were related to WhatsApp, followed by 22,680 complaints against Telegram and 19,800 complaints involving Instagram. These statistics underline the growing vulnerability of digital communication platforms to scams and cyber frauds.

Money Laundering and Cyber Slavery: A Disturbing Trend

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India MHA’s 2023-24 annual report also highlights alarming trends in online scams, with fraudsters using tools like Google Ads to orchestrate cross-border schemes. One particularly insidious scam, referred to as the ‘Pig Butchering Scam’ or ‘Investment Scam,’ involves not just financial fraud but also elements of money laundering and cyber slavery.

“Vulnerable groups such as unemployed youth, housewives, students, and people in financial need are being lured into these scams, often losing large amounts of money, including borrowed funds,” the report states. These scams exploit individuals’ financial insecurities, often leaving victims in dire situations.

Collaborations to Combat Cyber Fraud

To counter the surge in cybercrimes, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has forged partnerships with major tech companies like Google and Facebook. This collaboration focuses on:

• Sharing intelligence to block illegal digital lending apps.

• Mitigating the misuse of platforms such as Google’s Firebase, a popular hosting service.

• Identifying threats from Android banking malware and other malicious software.

Additionally, I4C is playing a pivotal role in training India’s law enforcement agencies, forensic examiners, prosecutors, and judges in cutting-edge cybersecurity practices and digital forensics.

National Cybercrime Reporting Portal: Empowering Victims

To empower victims and streamline the complaint process, the Government of India operates the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal. This user-friendly platform allows individuals to:

• Report cybercrimes such as hacking, identity theft, online fraud, and cyberbullying.

• Upload evidence supporting their cases.

• Monitor the progress of their complaints in real-time.

The portal also prioritizes cases involving women and children, providing resources like cyber safety tips to raise awareness about preventive measures.

About Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) is a nodal agency established by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India, to effectively combat cybercrime in the country.  

Key Objectives of Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

• Coordination and Collaboration: The primary objective of I4C is to enhance coordination and collaboration among various Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) involved in cybercrime investigation and prosecution. This includes agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), state police forces, and specialized cybercrime units.  

• Capacity Building: I4C aims to enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes by providing training, technical assistance, and access to resources.  

• Research and Development: The center conducts research and development activities in the field of cybercrime, including the development of new technologies and forensic tools to combat cyber threats.  

• Citizen Awareness: I4C plays a crucial role in raising public awareness about cybercrime and educating citizens on how to protect themselves from online threats.  

• International Cooperation: I4C collaborates with international law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity organizations to combat transnational cybercrime.  

Key Functions of Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

• Coordination of Cybercrime Investigations: I4C acts as a central point for coordination and information sharing among law enforcement agencies involved in cybercrime investigations.  

• Capacity Building Programs: I4C conducts training programs for law enforcement officials on various aspects of cybercrime investigation, including digital forensics, cybercrime laws, and cyber threat intelligence.  

• Development of Cybercrime Datasets: I4C develops and maintains databases and analytical tools to support cybercrime investigations.

• Citizen Assistance: I4C provides assistance to citizens who have been victims of cybercrime, including guidance on reporting cybercrimes and accessing legal remedies.  

Significance of I4C

The establishment of I4C is a significant step towards strengthening India's cybercrime response capabilities. By fostering better coordination among law enforcement agencies and leveraging technology, I4C plays a vital role in combating the growing threat of cybercrime in the country.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Home Affairs’ latest findings underscore the critical need for vigilance and cooperation in combating cyber fraud. With increasing reliance on digital platforms, the rise in cybercrimes targeting apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram is a stark reminder of the evolving threats in the cyber domain. Through initiatives like the I4C and the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, India is taking proactive measures to curb these crimes, safeguard its citizens, and strengthen its digital ecosystem.