Introduction
- Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar recently disclosed a disturbing case, including his 13 -year -old daughter, Nitara, while speaking at a cyber awareness program in Mumbai. This phenomenon outlines the increasing risks of children on digital platforms, especially in online games, where interactions with strangers can be quickly harmful.
- What happened
- . A few months ago, Nitara was playing an online video game that allowed interaction with unknown players.
- . He was contacted by a person who initially sent friendly, casual messages – “well played”, “good”, etc.
- . After learning she was a woman, the stranger asked her to send nude photos.
- Natara quickly ended the conversation and informed her mother.
- Response and big photo
- . Akshay Kumar portrayed the incident as more than only one personal issue; He said that cybercrime is formed in such cases and they can proceed to become blackmail or worse.
- . He said that cybercrime is severely severe – or even more severe – compared to traditional “road crime”.
- . As a response, Akshay appealed to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra to start “cyber period” (classes 7-10) in schools, where students will be taught about cyber security regularly.
why it matter
. Vulnerability of online minors: Many online games and platforms allow anonymous interaction, which can be exploited.
. Early Trust Building as grooming: sequence – sequential message, personal questions, then unfair requests- Mirrors grooming strategy.
. Awareness and education require: If children know how to answer, the loss can be reduced.
. Solutions and recommendations Schools should include cyber security as part of the course – children to read about digital etiquette, identify inappropriate behavior, and report how to report misuse.
. Parents and parents should maintain open communication with children what they do online. Platforms/game developers should improve moderation, reporting mechanism and age restrictions.
. Policy makers can consider legal framework to better punish such online harassment and protect minors.