The perpetrator befriends children through social media, chat apps or gaming sites, gains their trust and then grooms them for sexual abuse, fraud or other illegal activities. This problem affects all sections of society, especially children, who spend a lot of time on the internet.
Impact on society and children
Cyber grooming has a profound impact on the minds of children, causing them to be surrounded by fear, shame and guilt. It reduces their self-esteem and makes them isolated from society. Mental problems such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder can also occur. Physically, it can lead to sexual abuse, kidnapping or violence. Socially, children become isolated from family and friends, which increases loneliness and the influence of the perpetrator.
2023-2025: India and Punjab Statistics
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cybercrimes increased by 63.5% from 2020 to 2022, with over 65,000 cases reported in 2023, many of which involved children. According to a 2024 report, online abuse cases increased by 20% in 2022-2023. By mid-2025, experts say, this is likely to increase by another 15-20%. 70% of people in Punjab use the internet, and cyber grooming cases increased by 25% in 2022-2024.
More than 1,200 cybercrimes were reported in 2024, of which 15-20% involved children. Cases are higher in urban areas like Ludhiana and Amritsar, but rural areas are also affected.
Prevention methods Awareness:
Educate children and parents about the dangers of the internet. Digital safety should be a part of education in schools. Parents should create a safe space for children to share problems without fear. Use parental control software, keep devices on private mode. Advise children not to share personal information, pictures or videos. Ask them to report suspicious conversations immediately. Villages, schools and local groups should conduct cyber safety workshops.
Government’s responsibility
Strict laws: Implement strict penalties under the IT Act and POCSO Act, dispose of cases expeditiously. Strengthen cyber crime cells in Punjab, increase technological facilities. Launch cyber safety campaigns especially in rural areas. Cyber grooming endangers not just an individual or a family, but the entire society. Only with awareness, education, and timely steps can we protect children from the poison of this digital snake and secure their future.
