Thanks to digitization, our dependency on the internet is higher than ever. While it’s true that the internet plays a significant role in making human life easier, its negative impact due to increasing cyber threats can’t be overlooked. The more you use the internet for daily activities, the higher are the chances of cybercrimes. Cybercrimes happen when criminals exploit you or your business activities via the internet. Cybercriminals use computer systems and software to hack into another system illegally. Here, we look at some of the most common cybercrimes in India.

Identity theft is when cybercriminals use personal data like your name, credit card or debit card number, bank account number, PAN or Aadhaar, etc., to commit fraud. Identity thieves hack into a corporation’s database to steal customers’ information. Criminals may use your credit information to buy illicit goods and services for themselves, but you may end up having to take responsibility.

Phishing is when criminals send fake emails and text messages to bait customers. Criminals make these fake messages seem like they have been sent from authorized institutions. These messages may contain links that, when you click, can allow criminals to collect sensitive information. Phishing emails usually do not display the sender’s name or contact. If you receive suspicious–looking emails, simply delete them. Avoid clicking any links in the email or SMS.

Cybercriminals can also use social media or other online platforms to harass their users. Cyberbullying has become increasingly common among teenagers. Online bullying may include sending abusive and threatening texts, spreading rumors, making sexual remarks and much more. Social media influencers, too, are under the constant threat of cyberbullying. Victims can become suicidal, scared or depressed and may have to receive psychological treatments.

Ransomware is extortion via the internet. Criminals steal company data and demand payment in exchange for returning the data. Data usually consists of customer information, which can cause irreversible damage to the company’s reputation when released.

Scammers pretend to be online sellers with fake websites. These websites offer luxury brands at discounted prices. Unsuspecting shoppers may find the offer too attractive to let go of. Customers usually don’t get the product they paid for or get a fake product.

Artificial Intelligence or AI enables machines to imitate humans. The virtual assistant in your new–age smartphone or your smart home is AI–enabled. Hackers can leverage AI to create spyware programs that can expose the user’s sensitive information for financial gains.

Since you cannot eliminate your online presence completely, you can ensure that you keep your data safe by not saving your bank login credentials, updating your software, avoiding suspicious–looking emails or SMS, etc. If your data has been compromised or you are a victim of online harassment, you can report the crime to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

To protect yourself from financial losses occurring due to such cybercrimes, you can opt for cyber insurance. Cyber insurance helps you pay for legal expenses, psychological treatments, and losses that you typically incur while dealing with the aftermath of cyber–attacks.