UP Govt. to Set Up Cyber Clubs in Schools, Colleges to Spread Online Crime Awareness

Uttar Pradesh Government has urged school and college authorities to set up cyber clubs and create awareness among students against rising cyber crimes. The cyber clubs will help to raise awareness about the devastating effects of cybercrime by conducting workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions like poster-making and slogan writing.

Furthermore, the cyber club workshops will be involved in conducting case studies to teach students how to turn off computers properly, install and update anti-virus software and report spam activities. The cyber club's main aim is to encourage students to change passwords regularly and avoid connecting with unprotected Wi-Fi hotspots/connections. Cyber Clubs will also hold courses on not posting crucial personal finance-related information online.

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Cyber Crime in Indian Schools: Challenges and Solutions

According to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, over 50% of cybercrimes are associated with online financial fraud. Another survey conducted in schools and colleges across seven Indian states reports that more than 30% of students have experienced some cyber harm which includes cyber stalking, bullying, defamation, and hacking. Due to the continuous rise in cybercrimes, the vulnerability among students is exponentially increasing. To prevent cyber crimes among students, parents and teachers must take precautions. Following are some tips for protection and prevention from cybercrimes:

• Students should be cautious while posting personal information on social-networking
• Keep changing the passwords regularly and avoid using same password on multiple websites. 
• Install and update genuine anti-virus softwares.
• Parents should always be vigilant and check their children's online activities.
• Parents should discuss the risk and consequences of cybercrimes.
• Principals and teachers should conduct awareness programmes in schools to prevent cybercrimes.