The rapid development of technology has opened up a world of information to people all over the globe, but it has also given rise to a surge in network-based crimes, commonly known as cybercrimes, with a particular focus on the internet.
In Bangladesh, social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram have become key tools in facilitating criminal activities, ranging from identity theft and fraud to online gambling and blackmail.
With more and more individuals turning to the internet for communication and business, criminals have found opportunities to exploit these platforms for their malicious objectives. The most prevalent cybercrimes in Bangladesh today include identity hacking, creating fake accounts, online multi-level marketing scams, and gambling.
One of the most distressing cybercrimes is blackmailing, where victims like Shobha, a 25-year-old woman who met a man on Facebook, find themselves in compromising situations. Initially engaging in friendly conversation, the man escalated to demanding revealing photos and eventually threatening Shobha with the release of these images online unless she paid a large sum of money. Fortunately, with the help of a mentor and the Bangladesh Cyber Crime Department, the images were removed, but the emotional scars remained.
Another widespread issue is online fraud through fake Facebook pages, where victims like Anik fall prey to scams promising products that never arrive after payment. Many victims find themselves empty-handed and out of pocket after dealing with seemingly legitimate Facebook pages.
A troubling cybercrime that has gained traction is the “honey trap,” where scammers create relationships with individuals on social media platforms like Facebook and move to private chats on WhatsApp, eventually extorting money through the threat of releasing compromising videos.
Online gambling has also become a major problem in Bangladesh, particularly among the youth, driven by the promise of quick earnings and the easy accessibility of gambling platforms on smartphones. However, the lack of specific legislation addressing cyber gambling has led to widespread addiction and financial loss among young people.
Additionally, social media platforms like Instagram have become breeding grounds for cybercrimes such as cyberstalking and fraud, where perpetrators harass individuals and deceive users with fake products or services.
The main driving force behind these cybercrimes is financial gain, with perpetrators motivated to make money through blackmail, fraud, or online gambling at the expense of innocent victims.
Experts are calling for stricter laws and better enforcement to combat the escalating trend of cybercrimes in Bangladesh. While the government has taken steps to address cybercrime through new initiatives, the ever-evolving nature of these crimes presents a constant challenge.
As cybercrimes continue to impact individuals emotionally, financially, and psychologically, it is essential for both the public and authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in fighting these modern-day crimes.