PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The rise in cyber crime has instilled fear among the people, affecting their willingness to adopt new technologies that promote digitalisation. Motivated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India initiative, individuals have gradually embraced digitalisation over time.
However, in recent years, the surge in cyber crime has influenced people’s perceptions, creating a sense of apprehension about using technology associated with digitalisation. As a result, many residents of Dehradun have reported steering clear of online applications, particularly payment apps, due to their concerns about potential cyber crime risks.
The increase in cyber crime has raised concerns for many residents which has affected digitalisation efforts.
Localite Anil Rawat said that he operates a small shop outside his home where he sells grocery items. He generally prefers cash transactions over online payments in his shop. He said that while the world is shifting toward digitalisation, which he once found convenient, the rise in cyber crime has instilled a sense of fear in him, leading him to avoid using such applications. As a result, he has decided to stick to cash payments at his shop and prefers visiting the bank for safer transactions.
“I have less knowledge about the latest technology. It’s commendable that our PM encourages people like us to embrace digitalisation to make life easier. However, some malicious individuals have begun to misuse this technology through cyber crime. This has caused me to feel so frightened that I have even discouraged my children from using online payment applications to exchange money. I am concerned that using these applications without adequate knowledge may result in cyber crimes,” stated another Doonite Ekta Chadha.
Similarly, local resident Manoj Pal shared his apprehension about engaging with technologies that facilitate online payments. To steer clear of cybercrime, he said it would be wiser to visit the bank for transactions instead. He also highlighted the need for authorities to develop effective strategies to combat cybercrime, ensuring that the process of digitalisation does not instill fear in the younger generation.
