Bengaluru Faces Rising Cybercrime Amid Evolving Threats
BENGALURU: As Karnataka rolls out plans to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses with the appointment of 16 new cyber technicians, the state is grappling with an alarming surge in sophisticated cybercrime. Reports from 2024 show that despite an overwhelming 20,092 cybercrime cases, only 1,248 have been solved, resulting in losses of nearly Rs 2,900 crore to victims.
At the heart of this crisis is a particularly insidious type of malware known as polymorphic malware. Unlike traditional viruses, which maintain a consistent code, polymorphic malware acts like a “digital chameleon,” constantly altering its form to evade detection by conventional antivirus software. This dynamic nature makes it increasingly difficult for security measures reliant on pattern recognition to combat this evolving threat.
Experts warn that polymorphic malware finds its way into systems through phishing emails, fake downloads, and malicious links, immediately activating keylogging tools that steal sensitive information such as banking credentials. Not only is the malware elusive, but it also adapts and spreads across networks, complicating eradication efforts.
While Karnataka has taken steps toward combating cybercrime by training hundreds of police and judicial officers since 2019, outdated security tools continue to hinder progress. Current systems are primarily signature-based, falling short against the ever-changing strategies of cybercriminals who frequently update their methods to avoid capture.
Security officials advocate for the implementation of AI-driven tools and real-time monitoring systems to bolster defenses against this rapidly evolving threat. As technology advances, so do the tactics employed by criminals, underscoring an urgent need for continued vigilance among citizens. Authorities advise individuals to remain cautious against phishing scams, verify transactions, and avoid downloading unknown files to help mitigate risks in this digital age.