CYBER CRIME- AWARENESS PROGRAM
On September 26, 2024, the Department of Psychology from the School of Science at Rathinam College of Arts and Science hosted a significant "Cyber Crime Awareness Program" in the college auditorium. This initiative, organized in collaboration with the City Cyber Crime Cell, sought to tackle the pressing issue of cybercrime, which is increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age. The event drew an audience of 182 students, reflecting the college's dedication to raising awareness about critical contemporary issues. The program kicked off at 2:00 PM with a welcome address by Dr. S. Balasubramanian, the Principal of Rathinam College.
He emphasized the urgent necessity for heightened awareness regarding cyber threats, acknowledging the dual nature of the digital landscape that offers both opportunities and risks. He presented alarming statistics on identity theft, financial fraud, and cyberbullying, urging attendees to remain vigilant in their online activities and highlighting the role of educational institutions in equipping students with the knowledge to navigate this complex environment safely. Mr. T. R. Vishaga Saravanan, Special Sub Inspector of Police at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Coimbatore City, delivered the keynote address. Drawing from his extensive experience in combating cybercrime, he captivated the audience with insights into various forms of cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, online harassment, and financial scams. Mr. Saravanan shared compelling real-life case studies that illustrated the devastating consequences of cybercrime, including a poignant example of a young woman whose identity was stolen, resulting in significant financial and emotional distress. He urged attendees to practice good digital hygiene—such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being cautious with personal information—and emphasized the importance of promptly reporting cyber incidents to law enforcement to minimize damage. Following the keynote, Dr. A. Seethalakshmy, Head of the Department of Psychology and event convenor, offered a psychological perspective on cybercrime. She delved into the motivations behind cybercriminal behavior and the psychological impact on victims, particularly highlighting the enduring effects of cyberbullying and online harassment. Dr. Seethalakshmy encouraged the audience to approach these issues with empathy and understanding. The event also included a panel discussion featuring Smt. N. Tamil Selvi (Police Akka), Women Head Constable of the DS Sundarpuram Police Station, which allowed attendees to engage directly with law enforcement representatives. The program concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where students actively discussed cyber threats and digital safety. The event coordinatorsRajaswathy, Riya C Ashraf and Krishnaprabha carried out the event successfully. Overall, the "Cyber Crime Awareness Program" was a resounding success, providing attendees with crucial knowledge and tools to safely navigate the digital world. It underscored the importance of ongoing education and community cooperation in the fight against cybercrime.