While the digital world has become a major medium for learning, entertainment and communication for children, the rapid expansion of internet access is also exposing them to serious cyber threats. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2024 report has painted an alarming picture of the growing cyber crimes targeting children across India. According to the report, more than 90 percent of cyber crime cases involving children were related to the publication, circulation or exploitation through obscene digital content. Experts warn that social media platforms, online gaming networks and private chat applications are increasingly becoming the easiest gateways for cyber criminals to approach minors.
Alarming NCRB 2024 Statistics
According to NCRB data, a total of 1,238 cyber crime cases against children were registered in 2024. Out of these, 1,099 cases were linked to the publication or transmission of sexually explicit or obscene material involving children. The figures not only raise serious concerns over online safety mechanisms but also highlight how rapidly children’s privacy and digital security are being compromised in the virtual world.
The report further revealed that cyber criminals are now relying on advanced technology and social engineering tactics rather than conventional methods. In many cases, offenders first establish contact through social media or gaming platforms, gradually build trust, and later use private photos or videos to blackmail children. Investigators also found instances where fake online identities and AI-generated profiles were used to trap minors and teenagers.
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State-Wise Surge and Broader Trends
State-wise figures showed Chhattisgarh recording the highest number of such cases with 268 incidents, followed by Rajasthan with 174, Delhi with 151, Uttar Pradesh with 137 and Kerala with 92 cases. Investigative agencies said many offenders used encrypted chat platforms and closed online groups to circulate objectionable material. In several incidents, video calls and live-streaming features were also misused to exploit children.
The report also highlighted a broader increase in crimes against children across the country. In 2024, a total of 1,87,702 crimes against children were registered, marking a 5.8 percent rise compared to 2023. While overall crimes in India declined by nearly 10.8 percent over the last four years, offences targeting children continued to rise sharply. Cases against children increased from 1,28,531 in 2020 to 1,87,702 in 2024, reflecting an overall rise of nearly 46 percent within four years.
Cases registered under the POCSO Act further exposed the seriousness of the situation. NCRB data showed that 69,191 cases were filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in 2024. Among the 44,567 victims recorded under Sections 4 and 6, as many as 43,675 were girls, accounting for nearly 98 percent of the victims. The number of male victims stood at 892. The highest number of cases was reported in the 16–18 age group, where 23,497 cases were registered and 99.5 percent of the victims were girls.
Expert Warnings on Emerging Threats
A cyber expert associated with the Future Crime Research Foundation said, “Criminals are no longer using only social media to target children. Online gaming platforms, video chat applications and AI-generated fake profiles are increasingly being used to manipulate minors. Many children unknowingly share personal information, which is later used for blackmail and online exploitation.”
Cyber security experts believe that educating children about digital safety has now become an urgent necessity. Parents have been advised to closely monitor their children’s online activities, remain cautious about suspicious links and chats, and immediately report any unusual or threatening behaviour online. Investigative agencies are also strengthening AI-based monitoring, digital tracking and inter-state coordination mechanisms to tackle such crimes. In an era of expanding internet access, ensuring children’s digital safety is no longer just a family responsibility but a collective responsibility of society, educational institutions and technology platforms alike.
