Page 13 - Cyber Safety C-8

Ransomware

Ransomware is one of the most dangerous forms of malware. It encrypts the victim’s files and
demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) in exchange for decryption. Hospitals, schools, and
businesses across the world have been targets of ransomware attacks.

Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when attackers steal personal information such as Aadhaar numbers, PAN
details, bank account information, social media credentials, photographs and email addresses. stolen
data can be used to open fraudulent accounts, conduct scams, blackmail, or impersonate the victim.

Social Engineering
Social engineering exploits human psychology rather than technical flaws. Attackers manipulate

victims using techniques such as pretending to be a bank officer, offering fake job opportunities,
creating emotional pressure and sending messages claiming "your account will be blocked”.

Online Frauds and Scams

The rise of digital payments has also increased financial fraud. Online scammers use techniques
such as fake UPI links, fraudulent QR codes, fake customer support numbers and fake online
shopping websites.

21 st
CREATE YOUR OWN CYBER SAFETY POSTER Century #Creativity
Skills

Prepare a colourful and attractive poster that highlights at least five important cyber safety rules. Use
short messages, drawings, or symbols to make a poster engaging and easy to understand.
Submit the completed poster in class.

REAL LIFE INCIDENTS OF CYBER THREATS

Cyber threats are not just something seen in the news; they may happen to students also. From
fake messages pretending to be from teachers, to school data leaks and online blackmail, these
incidents show how important it is to stay alert online. Read the following real-life stories that

remind us why cyber safety matters.
1. Impersonated Teacher Tricked Students into Sending Inappropriate Photos

In Nagpur, a cybercriminal hacked a teacher’s WhatsApp account and sent messages to
his 12-year-old students that they needed to send semi-nude photos to receive a `3,000
government allowance. Few students complied. However, a parent noticed the suspicious
messages and reported the scam to the school and police.

A Modern Necessity 11