Cybercriminals target kids using games, fake IDs: SP

Panaji: Superintendent of police (crime branch) Rahul Gupta urged students on Saturday to exercise caution while using social media and gaming platforms to prevent cybercrime, cyberbullying, and online harassment.

Gupta said that the cyberworld is “new and weird”. He also warned students about the dangers online while emphasising the importance of being vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves in the digital space.

“You may receive a friend request from the wrong person, where the photo appears to be of someone else, but the account is actually operated by a different individual. We, in Canacona, have come across a case where a man used an account under a different name to harass a girl. We arrested him,” he said.

Addressing school students virtually during the career guidance programme under the Swayampurna Goa initiative, the SP said that cyber criminals can exploit technology to perpetrate cyber bullying or cyber harassment by sharing unwanted photos, coercing victims into video calls, and taking screenshots to use for blackmail.

“Using these tactics, perpetrators can manipulate and intimidate you. So, it's better to have friendship on Facebook or Instagram with those you know physically,” he said, and cautioned students from downloading “unsecured” games.

“Many online games are not secure and come with viruses or malware. As you download these games, your data is extracted and your phone is hacked. Simultaneously links are sent to people in your WhatsApp contact list where money is demanded in your name,” Gupta further said.

Gupta also spoke about online games that psychologically affect children and sometimes even compel them to attempt or commit suicide.



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