How to stop cybercrimes

Cyber security and data Protection serves as the Proactive defense against Cyber crime. Cybercrimes manifest through hacking, Phishing, identity theft, financial fraud, Malware Cyberzbullying and ransomware attacks. Weak cybersecurity, lack of awareness, and inadequate legal enforcement contribute to rising threat. Criminals take advantage of Social media, Banking systems and digital transactions to carry out their crimes, focusing on both individuals and organizations. By Safeguarding sensitive information, blocking unauthorized access, minimizing fraud risks and ensuring Privacy through encryption and Policies Data Azotection Prevents cybercrime. Strengthening cybersecurity measures and legal frameworks is crucial.

According to the cyber crime Awareness foundation in 2024, 21.65% of cybercrimes in Bangladesh include social media and Online account hacking. The majority of victims are young adults between the ages of 18 to 30 with 59% of them being female. The number of rising cybercrimes has increased by 11.85% and 11.35% of victims are victims of offenses involving pornography. Bangladesh's cyber Security Act 2023, is the Primary legislation regulating Cybercrime. It was passed to improve Cybersecurity defenses and guard with a range of online crimes Substituting the Digital Security Act of 2018.

Fake transactions and dishonest behavior cause people to lose money also, data penetration of personal nature damages security. Also, victims find it challenging to seek justice due to a lack of cyber awareness and insufficient law enforcement. These issues impede the expansion of online transactions, undermine digital trust, which renders many citizens feel worried about utilizing online services.

Cybercrime is not specifically covered by any of the sections in the Penal Code of Bangladesh (1860). Nonetheless, some cybercrimes, such fraud, cheating, and online defamation, can still be prosecuted under conventional criminal laws. For instance, online content may be subject to Section 499's provisions on defamation. Online fraud may also be covered by Section 420, which deals with cheating. The Penal Code can nevertheless be applied in situations where conventional criminal acts take place online, even though it does not specifically cover online criminal activity.

To prevent cybercrime, create strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. Regularly update your software to fix security vulnerabilities. Avoid downloading unfamiliar attachments and clicking on suspicious links to protect against phishing attacks. Back up critical data often, making sure it's encrypted.

Use antivirus programs and firewalls for strong security. Apply least privilege to limit access to private data. Watch the network for any odd activities. Access data remotely via VPNs and adopt safe Wi-Fi policies.

In Bangladesh, the punishment for cybercrime depends on the type of offense and can include imprisonment and fines. For Unauthorized access, Imprisonment for a minimum of 7 years and a maximum of 14 years, or a fine of up to 10 lakh Taka, or both . For Hacking, Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 14 years, or a fine not exceeding 1 crore Taka, or both. And for Digital or electronic fraud, Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years, or a fine not exceeding 5 lakh Taka, or both .