Cyber criminals: who they are and how to stay safe

When you hear the term "cyber criminal," you probably picture a hacker behind a screen, stealing data or money. The reality is broader – it includes anyone who uses the internet to cheat, blackmail, or cause damage. In India, cyber crime has risen sharply, and everyday actions like checking email or shopping online can expose you to risk.

Understanding what cyber criminals do helps you spot danger early. They aren’t all masterminds; many are everyday fraudsters using simple tricks. Below we break down the most common methods and show you what the law says, so you can protect yourself without needing a tech degree.

Common methods used by cyber criminals

Phishing emails and messages – These look like legitimate communications from banks, services, or friends. The goal is to get you to click a link or share passwords. The email often includes urgent language like “Your account will be locked.” If you ever doubt a message, open the official website directly instead of using the link.

Malware and ransomware – Clicking a bad link or downloading an unknown app can install software that steals data or locks your files until you pay. Keep your phone and computer updated; updates often patch security holes that malware exploits.

Fake job offers and investment scams – Scammers post attractive job ads or high‑return investment schemes on social media. They ask for personal details or an upfront fee. Always verify the company’s official contact information and never send money to someone you haven’t met.

Social engineering – This is the art of manipulating people rather than technology. A caller may claim to be from your ISP and ask for verification codes. Remember, legitimate companies rarely ask for sensitive info over the phone.

Legal steps and protection in India

The Indian government has taken strong action against cyber crime through the Information Technology Act, 2000, and its amendments. If you become a victim, you can file a complaint with the Cyber Cell of your local police station or use the online portal cybercrime.gov.in. Provide screenshots, email headers, and any transaction records – the more evidence, the easier it is for investigators.

Besides reporting, you can protect yourself with a few easy habits. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable two‑factor authentication wherever possible. A password manager can store them securely, so you don’t have to remember every one.

Regularly back up important files to an external drive or a trusted cloud service. If ransomware hits, you’ll have a clean copy to restore without paying a ransom.

Finally, stay informed. The Cyber Swachhata (Clean Internet) campaigns release alerts about new scams. Subscribe to a few reliable newsletters or follow the official cyber‑law updates from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

Cyber criminals thrive on confusion and speed. By recognizing the common tricks, using basic security habits, and knowing where to report, you turn the tables. You don’t need to be an IT expert – just stay alert, verify before you act, and use the legal tools India provides. Stay safe online!