The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) is a significant initiative established by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2020, aimed at addressing the growing concerns surrounding cybercrime in India. This center serves as a vital platform for citizens, encouraging them to identify and report unlawful online content while promoting cyber hygiene across the nation.
The main objectives of the I4C include:
As of the 2023-24 report from the Ministry, the I4C has successfully enrolled a total of 54,833 cyber volunteers. This dedicated group is categorized as follows:
Under the I4C framework, unlawful content is defined as:
Cyber volunteers play a crucial role in the I4C initiative. They can register through the Cybercrime Portal at www.cybercrime.gov.in, where they can flag suspicious content. Their efforts not only help in reporting but also in raising public awareness about safe online practices.
Despite its objectives, the I4C has faced criticism, particularly from organizations like the Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF). Critics argue that the initiative may foster a "culture of surveillance," potentially leading to distrust within society due to perceived excessive monitoring of online activities.
The effectiveness of the I4C framework was evident during significant events such as the G20 summit held in India. Cyber volunteers successfully flagged numerous cyber-attacks targeting government websites and servers, demonstrating their essential role in protecting digital infrastructure.
Q1. What is the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)?
Answer: The I4C is an initiative under the Ministry of Home Affairs, launched in 2020 to combat cybercrime in India. It serves as a platform for citizens to assist in identifying and flagging unlawful content online, promoting cyber hygiene, and supporting law enforcement.
Q2. How many cyber volunteers have been enrolled under the I4C framework?
Answer: As per the Ministry's 2023-24 report, 54,833 cyber volunteers have been enrolled, including 22,942 for reporting unlawful content, 22,071 as awareness promoters, and 9,819 as cyber experts.
Q3. What kind of content is considered unlawful under this framework?
Answer: Unlawful content includes material against India's sovereignty and integrity, content threatening state security, and information that promotes public disorder or disturbs peace.
Q4. How do volunteers contribute to this initiative?
Answer: Volunteers register through the Cybercrime Portal and flag suspicious content. They also promote awareness and help create a safer online environment.
Q5. What criticisms have been raised against this programme?
Answer: The Internet Freedom Foundation has criticized the initiative, claiming it fosters a "culture of surveillance" and may create societal distrust due to excessive monitoring.
Question 1: What is the main objective of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)?
A) To enhance physical security measures
B) To combat cybercrime and promote online safety
C) To regulate social media platforms
D) To monitor internet usage of citizens
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many cyber volunteers are enrolled for awareness promotion under I4C?
A) 9,819
B) 22,942
C) 22,071
D) 54,833
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Which type of content is NOT considered unlawful under I4C?
A) Content threatening state security
B) Content promoting public disorder
C) Material against India's sovereignty
D) Content related to personal opinions
Correct Answer: D
Question 4: What is a criticism of the I4C initiative?
A) It lacks public support
B) It encourages community involvement
C) It may create a culture of surveillance
D) It has no defined objectives
Correct Answer: C
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