Cyber crime and netiquette

The essentials

Cyber crime is any illegal activity carried out using computers, phones or the Internet. In India, the Information Technology Act, 2000 is the main law dealing with cyber crime. Netiquette (network etiquette) is the set of informal rules for polite, safe and responsible behaviour online.

Key points

• Cyber bullying: using digital means to harass, threaten, insult or humiliate someone, often repeatedly.
• Cyber stalking: persistently following, monitoring or contacting someone online against their wishes, causing fear.
• Trolling: posting deliberately provocative or offensive comments to upset people or start arguments.
• Online fraud: cheating people for money, for example fake lottery messages or shopping sites.
• Phishing: fake emails, messages or websites that trick people into revealing passwords, OTPs or bank details.
• Identity theft and hacking: misusing someone's personal data or gaining unauthorised access to accounts.
• Netiquette: be respectful; do not type in ALL CAPITALS (seen as shouting); check facts before sharing; respect privacy and do not share others' photos without consent; credit sources; avoid spam.
• Safety tips: use strong passwords, never share OTPs, block and report abusers, and keep evidence such as screenshots.

Exam tips

Learn to distinguish bullying (harassing a victim), stalking (persistent following), trolling (provoking for reaction) and phishing (tricking to get data). Case questions are common.

Common mistakes

Forwarding an unverified message is not harmless; it can spread fake news. Netiquette includes checking before sharing.