BENGALURU: The fight against cybercrime in Karnataka has taken a new turn as fraudsters are now using ‘polymorphic malware’ to evade detection, despite the recent appointment of 16 cyber technicians to combat such crimes. This new form of virus constantly alters its code, making it a challenge for investigators to crack cybercrime cases effectively.
With only 1,248 out of the 20,092 cases detected in 2024, victims have suffered significant financial losses, totaling nearly Rs 2,900 crore. The ever-evolving threat of polymorphic malware has posed a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies, as it continues to outsmart traditional security systems.
Police officials have described polymorphic malware as a ‘digital chameleon’ due to its ability to change its form continuously while spreading. Unlike traditional malware, which follows fixed patterns that can be easily detected by antivirus programs, polymorphic malware disguises itself by constantly modifying its code, encrypting itself, or scrambling its structure.
In response to this growing challenge, Karnataka, as the first state to establish a cybercrime police station, is now planning to upgrade its Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) with the latest tools to enhance its capabilities in combating cyber threats. The state has also conducted extensive training programs since 2019, with 176 judicial officers and 984 police personnel receiving specialized training, and 3,799 other officials undergoing online training sessions.
Despite these efforts, the primary obstacle in combating cybercrime remains the use of ‘outdated cybersecurity’ tools. The rapid evolution of cyber threats, such as polymorphic malware, requires law enforcement agencies to constantly update their techniques and tools to keep pace with cybercriminals.
As the number of cybercrimes continues to rise, it is essential for state authorities to invest in advanced technologies and training programs to effectively combat these evolving threats. The appointment of cyber technicians and the planned upgrades to the FSL demonstrate Karnataka’s commitment to staying ahead in the fight against cybercrime.
In conclusion, the battle against cybercrime is an ongoing challenge that requires constant vigilance and innovation. With the rise of polymorphic malware and other sophisticated cyber threats, law enforcement agencies must adapt and upgrade their capabilities to effectively protect citizens and businesses from financial and data breaches. By investing in advanced technologies and training programs, Karnataka is taking a proactive approach to address the evolving landscape of cyber threats and protect its citizens from online crime.