There is a significant increase in the sexual harassment and domestic violence cases during the lock-down in India and other parts of the world. Creation of fake profiles, cyber bullying, online stalking are bigger challenges at this time. Insensitive comments on posts are also intimidating. The cyber-crime department is receiving a lot of complaints during the lock-down period. The number of complaints is just minimum number of actual crimes as many women and men don’t file complaints because they worry about the social stigma associated with it.
The whole country is locked down, people are working from home and spending a lot of time on the internet. So, even the cyber criminals are becoming innovative and craftier in their techniques. Everyone is spending a lot of time on the internet. Some people are getting emails that your phone and laptop has been hacked, and if you don’t deposit money in my account I will send your morphed images, and share it with all your contacts. Basically people are receiving threats and are being blackmailed.
As you might be aware of morphing images, there is a whole racket going on where women get emails of their devices being hacked and images being morphed. These criminals demand money. Also there are cases of money laundering with emails and links.
All we can do about this situation is to be aware every time. Changing our passwords time to time and not clicking unknown links are the basic steps. Keeping ourselves safe is very important when we are using internet and social media. Also if you’re facing any issues then file a complaint in cyber-crime for the issues related to the cyber space crimes.
Now talking about the rise in domestic violence, being at home saves us from the virus but there are women and men who are being sexually and physically abused by the people in their family. The cases are increased as the frustration and anger is more as everyone has to stay home. This problem is faced all over the world with 60% rise.
The UN agency for sexual and reproductive health (UNFPA) has estimated that there would be 31 million more cases of domestic violence worldwide if lock-down continue for another six months.
What victims of domestic violence must remember is, to not blame themselves for what is happening to them. Violence is unacceptable and the perpetrator is 100 per cent responsible. Victims must not make excuses for the actions of the perpetrators, as there are none. Acceptance of such actions may lead to a vicious cycle of abuse. The option of reporting domestic abuse to the police is always available. However, if the victim does not intend on that course of action, they can create a safety plan for themselves, with a safe word to alert people they live with when faced with a threatening situation.
-Prachiti Chitale
