Youth as Digital Watchdogs in a New Era of the Digital World

Introduction

With crime taking place offline having significantly decreased since the pandemic, a whole new world of crimes has begun to emerge. And that’s cybercrime. Cybercrime includes digital harm like cyberbullying, fraud, phishing, misinformation, abuse, scams and cyber defamation, whereas offline crime results in physical harm like theft, murder, etc.

According to a report, there has been a massive growth in cybersecurity incidents, with over 22.68 lakh reported in 2024 and 86000 cases reported in 2023. And in response to this, the government introduced the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, Helpline 1930, and many more, but what about the youth? Where are these youth activists now? Shouldn’t they be active in cybersecurity-related cases? Maybe, no, Gen Z might not be interested in these things right? 

That’s where you are wrong. 

Cyber Safety Squads: The New Net Guards

Nowadays, youth are increasingly taking part in promoting online safety especially in India, and acting as the Net Guards. Cyber Safety Squads refer to individuals or groups of young people who actively monitor and report cybersecurity cases and make peers aware of different types of crimes taking place and how to be a safe internet user. 

But cyber vigilantism is a different aspect of net guards. They are involved in exposing cybercrimes through illegal methods like hacking and doxing. But violating the legal framework as a path to expose cybercrimes is not the right path; that’s why the government supports and wants citizens to be safe and emphasises reporting crimes through the proper legal channels. 

Why the Youth’s Role as Net Guards is Growing

We are living in a world where almost everything has gone digital, which naturally makes youth presence in the digital world more prominent, leading to more cyberbullying, misinformation, fraud, scams, and defamation. Many adults who lack technical skills might hunt for this. And also, remote working involves sharing private things online, which leads to an increased risk of cybercrime among youth. That’s why youth activists are becoming more active in the campaign against cybercrimes. Youth activists offer trust and support to adults and empower the victims. 

Youth-Led Cyber Safety Initiatives in India

Organisations like the Data Security Council of India have led a program called Cyber for Youth and train students as cyber ambassadors. And local initiatives lead to school, college and online community groups whose motive is to educate peers on identifying threats and how to be safe internet users. They train users and conduct training sessions and workshops with creative methods on safe browsing, creating passwords, and privacy. Gurugram’s Cyber Champs is another initiative that trains students to be youth cyber defenders. Bhartiya Cyber Squads aims for a Cyber Safe India involving youth as volunteers. Indian Cyber Squad acts as an educational institution. 

Impact Created by Youth Net Guards

One inspiring movement has a lean educated society. They make posters and upload relatable content, take sessions and workshops and collaborate with many non-profit organisations just to make people educated and aware. There’s been a massive transformation in closing the skill gap and creating more professional people to defend the future of India’s cybersecurity. It is important to know that these initiatives are legal and ethical, and vigilantism is illegal and outside the legal framework of the country. 

Challenges Faced by Youth Activists

The net guards of society often face difficulties from peers who don’t understand the importance of digital safety. They often have to face criticism from those and don’t get much support. But still, these squads don’t lose hope and are still on the ground with their dedication and commitment. Thus, there’s a need for the government to support these squads so that more and more citizens can be aware of cybercrimes taking place. 

Conclusion

With youth activists as cybersecurity squads, there’s a hope for a cyber-free India and the world. This is a revolution led by youth, making a safer and smarter cyberspace. 

References

[1] “Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre-I4C”, NationalPortalofIndia.gov.in. [Online].
Available: https://services.india.gov.in

[2] “Curbing Cyber Frauds in Digital India”, PressInformationBureau.com. [Online].
Available: https://www.pib.gov.in

[3] “Bhartiya Cyber Squad”, BhartiyaCyberSquad.in. [Online].
Available: https://bhartiyacybersquad.in

[4] “Cyber For Youth”, DataSecurityCouncilofIndia.in. [Online].
Available: https://www.dsci.in

[5] “Students Division”, IndianCyberSquad.org. [Online].
Available: https://www.indiancybersquad.org 

FAQs

Q1. What is cybercrime and why is it increasing today?
Cybercrime includes online fraud, phishing, cyberbullying, and data misuse. Its rise is linked to increased digital dependence and online activity.

Q2. Who are Youth Net Guards?
Youth Net Guards are young volunteers who promote online safety by educating peers, reporting digital threats, and encouraging responsible internet use.

Q3. How do Youth Net Guards help in preventing cybercrime?
They spread awareness, identify suspicious online behaviour, and guide victims toward official reporting platforms.

Q4. What types of cybercrime do young internet users face most often?
Common risks include phishing scams, online harassment, identity theft, misinformation, and financial fraud.

Q5. Are Youth Net Guards legally allowed to investigate cybercrime?
No. Their role is limited to awareness, prevention, and reporting. Legal investigation remains the responsibility of authorised agencies.

Q6. Why is youth participation important in digital safety initiatives?
Young people are highly active online and often understand digital platforms better, making them effective advocates for cyber safety.

Q7. How can students join or support Youth Net Guards initiatives?
Students can participate through school or college programs, community workshops, or certified cyber awareness campaigns.

Q8. What is the difference between cyber vigilance and cyber vigilantism?
Cyber vigilance focuses on lawful reporting and awareness, while vigilantism involves illegal actions such as hacking or doxing.

Q9. How does cybercrime affect mental and financial well-being?
Victims may experience stress, anxiety, reputational harm, and financial losses, highlighting the need for early support systems.

Q10. What role do Youth Net Guards play in building a safer digital future?
By promoting awareness and ethical behaviour online, Youth Net Guards help create a more informed and resilient digital society.