Baalakon ke Viruddh Cyber Apradh: Ek Samajik–Vidhik Adhyayan

Cyber Crime Against Children: A Socio-Legal Study

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technology in India has opened new opportunities for children, but at the same time it has exposed them to various risks of cybercrime. The present research article undertakes a socio-legal study of cybercrimes committed against children, including an analysis of the nature, causes, and impacts of such crimes, as well as the existing legal safeguards available to address them. The study highlights major threats such as cyberbullying, online grooming, identity theft, sexual abuse, and exposure to harmful digital content. It also explains how socio-technical factors such as lack of digital awareness, absence of parental supervision, peer pressure, and technological vulnerability make children more susceptible to cyber risks.
From a legal perspective, the study examines the relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000; the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012; and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The analysis reveals that limitations in enforcement mechanisms, challenges in investigation, and inadequate digital literacy further complicate the problem. The study concludes that ensuring children’s online safety requires a comprehensive approach combining effective laws, technological safeguards, and extensive public awareness programs.