Cyber Crime: Desire – The Root of Sorrow!

Team Udayavani, Jan 14, 2025, 12:05 PM IST

Several incidents of cybercrime remind us of the words of Gautama Buddha: “Desire is the root of sorrow.” Experts affirm this in most cases of cyber fraud, where the greed for doubling or multiplying wealth leads victims into traps.

Udupi: A closer look at the rising cybercrime cases highlights three key factors: haste, unnecessary anxiety, and lack of basic awareness.

Experts have simple advice to avoid falling prey to cybercriminals: “Do not disclose your information unnecessarily. Stay calm and rely on basic awareness.” They also warn against excessive greed, a crucial factor in cyber fraud. Adopting these principles can help people stay vigilant and prevent cybercriminals from succeeding.

Caution is Key

With the growing use of smartphones and advanced technology, users must exercise caution while using apps and tools. Otherwise, falling prey to cybercriminals is almost inevitable.

From morning tea to dinner, online payment apps have become a norm. However, many people install these apps to avoid feeling inferior in front of friends. Comments like, “What, you don’t have Google Pay or PhonePe?” can prompt users to rush into using payment apps without adequate knowledge.

Experts advise using such apps only if you understand their functionality and limiting their usage to known features. Cybercriminals often exploit negligence to siphon money from bank accounts.

Money Disappears in Seconds

Fake companies operating under the guise of IT-BT firms in North India and abroad systematically target people from South India. These fraudsters collect phone numbers from online sources and send malicious links. Through phone calls and links, they deceive victims and empty their accounts in seconds. Cases of such fraud, where victims lose thousands to crores, are increasingly being reported.

Why Do People Fall for Scams?

According to experts, a general lack of awareness about cyber fraud is a significant reason people fall victim. Many believe downloading specific apps can directly drain their accounts, which isn’t true. However, even minor negligence can result in account theft. Authorities emphasize caution before clicking on unknown links, especially in online transactions and stock market investments.

Stock Market Scams

Interest in stock market investments has grown, from students to senior citizens. A recent incident in the district highlights how greed can lead to significant losses.

A college lecturer was added to a WhatsApp group created by fraudsters. They regularly posted updates about daily profits, enticing him to invest. Initially, he earned a 10% profit in his stock account. This encouraged him to invest more, with promises of doubling his money. Eventually, the scammers convinced him to take loans for larger investments, citing potential high returns.

Realizing the fraud only after his account was drained, the lecturer lodged a complaint with the cybercrime police. Officials managed to recover Rs 2 lakh, but further investigation is needed to recover the remaining amount.

Challenges in Tracing Funds

In Udupi district this year, 63 cases of cyber fraud were reported, with victims losing Rs 13.22 crore. Police have recovered Rs 35.57 lakh so far. Tracing the origin of stolen funds remains a challenge, as accounts often link to locations in West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Delhi, with no clear ownership details.

Takeaway

Avoid unnecessary haste, stay informed, and be cautious while using online tools. Greed and negligence are the biggest pitfalls leading to cyber fraud. Awareness and vigilance are the best defenses against cybercrime.