Geetesh Kumar Singh, Mahesh A. Tripathi, Rahil Mathakiya
Rashtriya Raksha University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat
Vidushi Jaswal
MCM DAV College for Women, Panjab University, Chandigarh
Pages: 292-304
The rapid growth of Internet usage in India has led to a rise in cybercrimes against
children. This study aimed to analyze the patterns, trends, and motives of cybercrimes
against children to inform effective protective measures. Using an exploratory research
design, secondary data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) from 2017 to
2021 were collected and analyzed through descriptive statistics and regression analysis
to identify trends and patterns in cybercrimes against children across different Indian
states. The findings showed a 143% increase in overall cybercrime and a staggering
1,460% increase in crimes against children during the period. Fraud was the main
motive (59.3%), followed by sexual exploitation, extortion, disruption, revenge, and
anger. Child pornography accounted for 60% of these cases. States like Karnataka,
Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra reported higher incidence rates. These results
emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect children online.
The sharp increase in cybercrimes against minors, particularly child pornography,
highlights their vulnerability in digital spaces. The variation in incident rates across
states suggests the importance of targeted interventions. Based on our research, we
recommend implementing digital literacy programs for children and parents, developing
state-specific strategies to prevent cybercrimes, and strengthening legal frameworks
to address the evolving threats against children.