A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OF CYBERCRIMES AGAINST WOMEN IN INDIA: DECIPHERING THE CAUSES AND EVALUATING THE IMPACT ON THE VICTIMS

The growing use of the internet has provided a conducive platform for miscreants to engage in the misuse of information and communication technology (ICT). It has resulted in a potential threat to individuals in terms of cybercrimes. In general, cybercrimes are increasing at a rapid pace in India. The most vulnerable group targeted in cybercrimes in India has been women and girls. Using purposive sampling method for the selection of sample, this study focuses on cybercrimes against women in India and their impact on the victims. Awareness about cybercrimes is minimal. Historically, women have been subjected to various kinds and forms of discrimination and crimes, the newest being cybercrimes. Results exhibit that computer literacy is higher among males than females, which is a factor in women being more vulnerable to cybercrimes. The suppression of cybercrimes affects the victim psychologically through depression, fear, anxiety, and withdrawal from cyberspace. To overcome these kinds of effects, victims often share the situation they have faced with friends, close acquaintances, and family members.