Sharp rise of Cyber Kidnapping

Cyber kidnapping refers to a crime where the ‘kidnappers’ convince their victim to hide, and then contact their loved ones for ransom. The victim is also made to send pictures that make it look like they are being held captive — showing them bound or gagged. These are then shared with the family.

Both parties believe their loved ones will be harmed if they don’t do as the kidnappers ask. "Sharp rise of Cyber Kidnapping" raises a red flag as it likely refers to online scams masquerading as actual kidnappings. True cyber kidnapping, involving the physical abduction of a person through online manipulation, is extremely rare.

"cyber kidnapping" is often used by scammers to create urgency and fear, tricking victims into paying ransom money for supposed digital hostages. These scams can take various forms, such as:

· Phishing emails or social media messages: Scammers might pose as law enforcement or kidnappers, claiming they are holding a loved one hostage and demanding payment in cryptocurrencies or other difficult-to-trace methods.

· Sextortion: Scam artists blackmail victims with threats of releasing compromising photos or videos online.

· Fake online games or apps: These platforms trap victims with promises of rewards or virtual items, then threaten to expose their personal information or harm their online avatars if they don't pay.

The sharp rise in these scams likely correlates with increased internet usage and reliance on digital platforms.

Here are some resources to help combat these scams:

· Never pay ransom demands: Legitimate kidnappings are handled by law enforcement, not through online payments.

· Double-check information: Verify claims with family and friends before taking any action based on online messages.

· Be cautious with personal information: Don't share sensitive details online, especially with strangers.

· Use strong passwords and security measures: Protect your devices and accounts with unique passwords and multi-factor authentication.

· Report suspicious activity: If you suspect a scam, report it to the relevant authorities such as your local police or cybercrime reporting sites.

Remember, staying informed and cautious online is crucial to avoid falling victim to these scams. If you're ever unsure about a situation, err on the side of caution and reach out to trusted sources for advice.

Dr. Deepak Kumar Sahu, President & CEO, VARINDIA