India's No 2 victim of cyber crime

Report says impact of attacks is immense, with many feeling cheated

Divyesh Singh MUMBAI

With increasing use of computers and the Internet through broadband penetration, the risk of being a victim of cyber crime has increased. Indian net users have been one of the most favourite targets of cyber criminals. In fact, a recent research report by global e-security solutions provider Norton has shown that 76% Indian web users have been victims of cyber crime . The report pointed out that India is the second most victimised nation after China in terms of cyber attacks or cyber crime. It includes virus attacks, botnet attacks, online credit card frauds, lottery frauds, identity thefts, hacking attacks and attacks through social networking sites on personal profiles, which could include sexual harassment online and cyber-bullying. Around 65% Internet users worldwide have been victims of cyber crime, but in India it is greater. The report revealed that the impact of such attacks has been immense on victims who feel ripped off or cheated. High emotional impact has affected their personal and professional lives. Around 58% victims feel angry, while 51% have been left feeling annoyed and cheated and 46% among them are upset. Eighty-eight percent victims feel they are themselves to blame for the attack. Only 8% Indian users think it will not happen to them and that they cannot be victims of cyber crime. Most Indians believe cyber criminals cannot be brought to justice as police and other agencies cannot go beyond borders to take action against those who easily swindle money out of people's accounts. The next time you surf the net, consider this: You may be a click away from becoming the next cyber crime victim. The study by Norton revealed the staggering prevalence of cyber crime: Two-thirds (65%) Internet users globally, and over three-quarters (76%) Indian web surfers have fallen victim to cyber crimes, including computer viruses, online credit card fraud and identity theft. Despite being left with a feeling of helplessness, only 59% Indian adults think that they will change their behaviour and take action legally when targeted. Surprisingly, only 37% victims of cyber crime have reported it to the police. "We all pay for cyber crime, either directly or through pass-along costs from financial institutions," said Adam Palmer, Norton lead cyber security advisor.