News Today: Cybercrime Incidents Surge with Over 9,000 Cases Reported

Cybercrime in Sri Lanka has become a critical issue, with over 9,000 incidents reported between August and September this year, according to the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT). SLCERT engineer Charuka Damunupola revealed that there has been a dramatic rise in cybercrime activities, with 80% of the cases involving social media platforms. These statistics expose the vulnerabilities that many online users face today.

Among the reported incidents, 20% are related to various types of cybercrime, including online fraud. So far, 1,400 cases of online fraud have been documented, indicating a concerning trend. Additionally, 85 cases of cyberbullying targeting children have been highlighted, along with 40 cases of online sexual abuse aimed at minors.

The rise in such cases underscores the need for individuals and organizations to adopt stronger security measures to protect against the growing threats in the digital landscape. SLCERT stresses the importance of being proactive and taking steps to prevent cyber-attacks, as these threats evolve rapidly.

The alarming statistics indicate the urgent necessity for awareness campaigns, particularly to protect vulnerable populations like children from online abuse and exploitation. This increase in cybercrime calls for immediate action and robust cybersecurity measures across the country.