The Modern Cyber World: Security, Cybercrime, and the Growing Importance of Cyber Forensics

Sougata Saha

December 28, 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving digital era, the cyber world has become an inseparable part of daily life. From communication and education to banking, healthcare, and governance, digital technologies shape how societies function. While this digital transformation has brought immense convenience and growth, it has also introduced serious challenges in the form of cyber threats and cybercrime. As a result, cybersecurity and cyber forensics have emerged as critical pillars in protecting individuals, organizations, and nations.

The modern cyber world refers to the vast digital ecosystem formed by the internet, computers, mobile devices, cloud platforms, social media, and smart technologies. Information now flows instantly across borders, enabling global connectivity and innovation.

Key features of this cyber world include:

• Constant internet connectivity

• Large-scale data generation and storage

• Digital identities and online transactions

• Increasing use of artificial intelligence and automation

However, this interconnected environment also creates vulnerabilities, making cyber protection more important than ever.

The Rising Threat of Cybercrime

Cybercrime has grown alongside technological advancement. Cyber criminals exploit weaknesses in systems and human behaviour to steal data, commit fraud, and disrupt services.

Common forms of cyber threats include:

• Malware attacks, such as viruses and ransomware

• Phishing scams, which deceive users into sharing sensitive information

• Social engineering, where attackers manipulate people rather than technology

• Identity theft and financial fraud

Cyber criminals range from individuals to organized groups and even state-sponsored actors. Their motives include financial gain, data theft, espionage, and digital disruption.

Cybersecurity: Protecting the Digital World

Cybersecurity is the practice of safeguarding digital systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access and attacks. Its primary objective is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

Cybersecurity covers multiple domains, including:

• Network and system security

• Application and cloud security

• Mobile and internet security

• Identity and access management

Effective cybersecurity not only protects personal data but also ensures the smooth functioning of businesses, governments, and critical infrastructure.

Cyber Forensics: Investigating Digital Crimes

As cybercrime increases, cyber forensics—also known as digital forensics—plays a vital role in investigation and justice. Cyber forensics involves the scientific collection, analysis, and preservation of digital evidence.

Cyber forensic experts work to:

• Trace cyber attacks and identify their sources

• Recover deleted or hidden digital data

• Analyze malicious software and system logs

• Support legal proceedings with technical evidence

Law enforcement agencies, cybersecurity teams, and courts rely heavily on cyber forensics to combat digital crimes and hold offenders accountable.

Staying Aware in the Cyber Age

Cyber awareness is the first line of defence against digital threats. Many cyber attacks succeed not because of advanced technology, but due to lack of awareness among users.

Key awareness practices include:

• Being cautious of suspicious emails, messages, and links

• Verifying online identities and sources

• Limiting the sharing of personal information on social media

• Understanding basic digital privacy and security principles

An informed user is far less likely to fall victim to cybercrime.

Defending Against Cyber Attacks

Cyber defence requires a combination of technology, responsible behaviour, and education.

For individuals:

• Use strong and unique passwords

• Enable multi-factor authentication

• Keep devices and software updated

• Use trusted security tools such as antivirus software

For organizations:

• Implement security policies and regular training

• Monitor systems continuously

• Maintain data backups and incident response plans

A proactive defence strategy significantly reduces cyber risks.

Ethics and Responsibility in Cyberspace

Ethics play a crucial role in cybersecurity. Knowledge of technology must be used responsibly and legally. Ethical practices include respecting privacy, following laws, and using cybersecurity skills to protect—not exploit—digital systems.

Cybersecurity professionals are guardians of the digital world, entrusted with safeguarding information and public trust.

The Future of Cybersecurity

As technology continues to advance, cybersecurity will remain a critical global concern. Emerging trends include artificial intelligence–based threat detection, stronger data protection laws, and increased demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.

With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, investment in cybersecurity education, awareness, and innovation is essential for a secure digital future.

Cybercrime in North East of India also on the Rise: Alarming Losses, What Citizens Must Know and Do

As North Eastern States deepens its engagement with the digital economy - mobile banking, online services, and social media usage - the state is also witnessing a troubling escalation in cybercrimes. Recent police figures and official data indicate that cyber fraud has evolved into a serious public safety concern, affecting hundreds of residents and leading to financial losses exceeding tens of crores of rupees.

Magnitude of the Problem: Verified Data and Sources

Tripura’s police officials have provided detailed statistics on cybercrime losses in the state:

• According to the Director General of Police (DGP), 269 citizens in Tripura have fallen victim to cyber frauds since 2021, with total reported losses amounting to Rs.51.49 crore. This trend, while showing some decline in recent months, highlights the persistent threat facing the public.

• The year-wise breakup shows that losses climbed from Rs.1.98 crore in 2021 to Rs.25.54 crore in 2024, underscoring how cybercriminals have honed their tactics over time.

• Tripura Police also reported that over 4,283 cyber fraud complaints were filed between April 2024 and April 2025 through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, covering scams such as fake job offers, fraudulent loans, lottery deceptions, and phishing attacks.

• In a major enforcement action, 16,486 bank accounts linked to online scams were frozen by police efforts in 2025 — collective holdings estimated at more than Rs.26 crore — as part of tracking fraudulent financial flows.

• Over the past three years, Tripura registered 123 cybercrime cases, leading to the arrest of 74 people, as reported in a government submission to the state legislature.

These figures are drawn from official police briefings, state policy communications, and government reporting portals, underscoring both the scale of cyber threats and the response steps taken by authorities.

How Cybercriminals Operate: Common Methods of Deception

Cybercriminals exploit both technology and human psychology. The prominent patterns documented in Tripura include:

• Fake billing and service notices: Fraudsters send fraudulent electricity, gas, or traffic challan notices to prompt payments.

• Investment and loan scams: Offers of high returns or easy credit entice victims to transfer funds that never return.

• Impersonation of officials: Scammers pose as government or bank representatives, demanding OTPs or credentials.

• Social media and messaging app traps: Manipulated messages on WhatsApp or social platforms lure users into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information.

• Blackmail and extortion: Cyber offenders sometimes obtain private images or recordings and threaten public exposure unless money is paid. In this case, modern day cases are also coming as cybercriminals also tend to generate morphed images and also deepfake images for blackmailing.

These tactics rely heavily on trust exploitation and psychological manipulation — making awareness and caution as important as technology defences.

Evolving Tactics of Cybercriminals

Cyber offenders are no longer relying solely on generic phishing or cold calls. Recent investigations indicate sophisticated strategies such as fraudulent traffic challans and fake government-branded Android apps being distributed via WhatsApp and Telegram to trick citizens into installing malware, which can then steal data, money, and control mobile devices.

These techniques often rely on social engineering—tricking users into trusting messages from familiar contacts—which dramatically increases the success rate of fraudulent campaigns.

Government and Police Response

Recognizing the seriousness of the threat, the state government has taken proactive steps:

• Inauguration of a dedicated cybercrime police station in Agartala to better handle complex digital crime investigations and support victims.

• Cybercrime awareness workshops conducted by academic institutions and community groups aim to educate citizens about online risks and safe practices.

• Police have frozen thousands of bank accounts linked to fraudulent activities while investigations continue.

• At the national level, measures like the Tripura Cyber Security Policy (TCSP 2.0)—launched in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and IT—seek to strengthen resilience against cyber threats.

Why Tripura’s Cybercrime Is Growing

Tripura’s rising cybercrime figures mirror broader national trends, but local factors contribute:

1. Increased Digital Participation

As more residents use online banking, mobile wallets, and digital services, the number of potential targets has multiplied. More internet users means more cyber exposure.

2. Low Digital Literacy

A lack of awareness about basic cybersecurity practices such as not recognizing phishing links or not protecting OTPs makes individuals vulnerable to digital deception.

3. Sophistication of Scammers

Criminals increasingly use advanced tools — including spoofed phone numbers, fake apps, and deepfake impersonation — to appear legitimate and build trust.

4. National Connectivity of Crime Networks

Cybercrime is often transnational. Networks based in other Indian states or neighbouring countries target Indian citizens, moving funds through mule accounts and complex money trails that are hard to trace. (Context from broader Indian cybercrime patterns)

Protective Measures: Citizen’s Guide to Cyber Safety

Personal Digital Hygiene

1. Strong, Unique Passwords

Use multi-factor authentication and avoid reusing passwords across accounts and while allocating passwords we have to have our habit of mixing uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers (digits) as well as special characters as our password. Also we have to ensure that we are not using a very common password such as name of user or birth day of user as they are very easy to guess and can be very easily tackled using brute force attacks.

2. Be Wary of Unsolicited Contacts

Do not respond to unexpected calls, SMS, or emails asking for banking or personal data.

3. Limit App Installations

Install apps only from trusted sources like official app stores and avoid unknown APKs.

4. Regular Updates

Keep your Smartphone, computer, and banking apps updated to patch known security vulnerabilities.

5. Don’t Share OTPs or PINs

Bank OTPs and PINs are never required by anyone but you — sharing them gives criminals direct access.

Social Awareness and Behaviour

• Teach family members, especially the elderly and students, about avoiding suspicious links.

• Do not click on messages with urgent or alarming language.

• Validate offers independently — contact official customer service rather than through links provided in text.

Legal Steps After Falling Victim to Cybercrime

1. Document Evidence Immediately

Take screenshots, save message logs, and record transaction details — these are crucial for investigation.

2. Report to Authorities Promptly

• National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) allows online filing of complaints.

• Call 1930 — a dedicated cybercrime helpline.

• Visit the nearest police station or the Cyber Crime Police Station in Agartala to file an FIR.

3. Inform Your Bank

Report unauthorized transactions immediately to your bank’s fraud department and request temporary freezes on accounts if needed.

4. Follow-Up and Cooperation

Stay in contact with investigating officers, provide requested evidence, and be responsive to updates on your case.

5. Civil Remedies

If financial losses involve negligence by service providers (like banks), you may pursue consumer court action for compensation where applicable.

How to Stay Safe from Bank-Related Cyber Offences: Official Guidelines and Practical Tips

As banking becomes increasingly digital, cybercriminals often target customers through phishing, vishing, malware, fake apps, social engineering and account takeover techniques. To protect your financial assets, it is crucial to follow officially recommended safety measures and stay vigilant at every step.



1. Protect Your Banking Credentials

• Never share your OTP, PIN, CVV or online banking password with anyone — not even if they claim to be bank officials. Banks including SBI clearly state that they will never ask for these details through calls or messages.

• Avoid replying to unsolicited emails or calls that seek personal or financial details. These are typical signs of phishing or vishing attacks.

2. Use Secure and Official Channels Only

• Access your bank’s website only by typing the official URL yourself or via the bank’s official mobile app. Do not open links received in SMS, WhatsApp or email that claim to be from your bank.

• Banks such as Indian Bank and IDFC FIRST Bank advise downloading apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store - never install apps from unknown links.

3. Enable Strong Security Features

• Multifactor Authentication (MFA) or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of defence beyond your password. Most Indian banks and digital wallets offer this feature — always enable it.

• Use strong, unique passwords for your bank accounts and change them periodically. Avoid easily guessable passwords such as birthdays or common words.

4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

• Check your bank account statements and online transaction history frequently — weekly or monthly. Early detection of unusual transactions can allow quick reporting and reversal.

• Enable real-time alerts for transactions, large transfers, debit/credit events, and low balances.



5. Avoid Risky Networks and Devices

• Do not use public Wi-Fi or shared PCs when accessing your bank account. These unsecured networks make it easier for attackers to intercept your data.

• Install reputable antivirus and security tools on your devices and keep your software and apps updated with the latest security patches.

6. Beware of Fake Calls and URLs

• Scammers often use fake phone numbers, spoofed email addresses, or look-alike bank website URLs to trick users into entering credentials or OTPs. Check sender details carefully and always verify through official channels.

• Some banks (e.g., SBI) even publish official phone numbers to help customers recognize authentic communications.

7. Update KYC and Aadhaar Safely

• Do not update Know-Your-Customer (KYC) information or Aadhaar details through links sent via SMS or social media. Always use official banking apps, bank branches, or the UIDAI official website for such updates.

8. Follow Government and Regulatory Guidelines

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has repeatedly stressed stronger cybersecurity measures for banks and customers, and banks must follow strict guidelines, including continuous monitoring of suspicious activity and reporting of cyber incidents.

• Major regulatory and enforcement bodies like CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal also provide guidance and support for fraud prevention.

Official Government Safety Resources (India)

These portals and helpline numbers are indispensable if you suspect banking fraud or cybercrime:

✔National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:https://cybercrime.gov.in — Government portal to file complaints online for any cybercrime, especially financial fraud.

✔Indian Cybercrime Helpline 1930: A 24/7 toll-free helpline operated by the Ministry of Home Affairs for cybercrime reporting and assistance.

✔CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team): Official agency for cybersecurity incident response and advisories.

✔RBI Cybersecurity Guidelines: RBI periodically issues cybersecurity guidance to banks and financial institutions to safeguard digital banking infrastructure.

Key Practices to Remember (Summary)

 Never share OTPs, PINs or passwords with anyone.

 Use official apps and URLs only.

 Turn on MFA/2FA.

 Regularly monitor accounts and alerts.

 Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking.

 Report suspicious activity immediately to banks or 1930.

Why This Matters

Banks and regulators like the RBI continue to raise alarms about rising digital frauds and cyber attacks on financial services, and have introduced measures such as dedicated security frameworks and even exclusive domain names for banks to reduce phishing risks.

In the fight against banking cybercrime, awareness, vigilance and adherence to official recommendations are as critical as technology safeguards. Stay informed, stay secure.

Government and Law Enforcement Responses

Tripura is enhancing its cybercrime response capacity:

• Specialized enforcement units and training for police personnel have been implemented.

• Plans to open dedicated cybercrime police stations equipped with digital forensics tools aim to strengthen investigative capabilities.

• Public advisories and awareness campaigns are conducted through workshops and media outreach.

In addition, the state’s Cyber Security Policy Framework seeks to build resilience in governance and citizen protection in the face of digital threats. (Based on policy sources)

The rapid expansion of the digital world has transformed everyday life, offering unprecedented convenience, connectivity, and access to services. However, this transformation has also exposed society to new and complex risks in the form of cybercrime. As reliance on digital platforms continues to grow, cybersecurity can no longer be viewed as a technical concern alone; it has become a critical public safety issue that affects individuals, families, institutions, and governments alike.

Tripura’s rising cybercrime figures reflect a broader national challenge where digital adoption has outpaced cyber awareness. Financial losses running into crores, increasing complaints, and the involvement of organized cyber networks underline the seriousness of the threat. These crimes are no longer isolated incidents but part of a structured ecosystem that exploits both technological gaps and human vulnerabilities. The growing sophistication of scams—ranging from banking frauds to impersonation and social engineering—demands a stronger, more coordinated response.

Government initiatives, law enforcement actions, and the development of cyber forensic capabilities demonstrate the state’s commitment to addressing this challenge. Dedicated cybercrime units, account freezes, arrests, and awareness campaigns are important steps forward. Yet, enforcement alone cannot fully counter cyber threats. Long-term success depends on continuous public education, robust digital infrastructure, and cooperation across state and national boundaries.

At the individual level, awareness remains the most effective defence against cybercrime. Responsible online behaviour, strict adherence to banking safety guidelines, cautious sharing of personal information, and timely reporting of suspicious activities can significantly reduce risks. Citizens must recognize that simple preventive measures—such as not sharing OTPs or clicking unknown links—can prevent serious financial and emotional harm.

Ultimately, a safe digital future depends on a shared responsibility. While governments and institutions must strengthen systems and laws, citizens must remain informed, vigilant, and proactive. Cybercrime thrives on ignorance and urgency, but it can be defeated through awareness, preparedness, and ethical use of technology. By fostering a culture of cyber safety and accountability, Tripura—and the nation as a whole—can fully harness the benefits of digital progress while minimizing its dangers.

About Author

Name – Mr. Sougata Saha.

Educational Qualifications –

 Passed 10th and 12th Examinations from Pranavananda Vidyamandir, Agartala, Tripura (West).

 Completed Bachelors in Forensic Sciences from National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar Campus, Gujarat.

 Currently pursuing my Masters in Cyber Forensics from NFSU Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

(Pursuing Masters in Cyber Forensics from NFSU Gandhinagar)

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