Jaipur, India — Cyber fraud and fake websites using public figures’ identities have emerged as a major digital threat, cautioned Chief Justice of India Surya Kant at a national cybersecurity event in Jaipur.
Chief Justice Kant described growing cyber threats as “modern-day extortion and dacoity,” stressing the urgency of coordinated legal and technological action to protect the public.
CJI Warning on Cyber Fraud Fake Websites
In a revealing moment, the CJI disclosed that cybercriminals had created multiple fake websites using his name to send misleading messages to his family members and lawyers.
He said this personal experience is not an isolated case but reflects a wider trend where fraudsters exploit trusted names to deceive and trap victims.
Authorities later traced some of these fraudulent digital assets to sources outside India, underlining the borderless nature of cybercrime.
Cyber Fraud Fake Websites: Massive Financial Impact Across India
During his address at the “Cyber Security: Awareness, Protection and Inclusive Access to Justice” conference, the CJI shared startling figures from the Ministry of Home Affairs: over ₹50,000 crore has been siphoned from victims through online frauds.
He also highlighted that around 66 lakh cyber fraud complaints are currently pending in Indian courts, illustrating the scale of the problem.
This includes complex scams like digital arrest, where fraudsters use intimidation and fake legal threats to coerce victims into transferring funds or divulging sensitive information.
Judicial and Institutional Responses on Cyber Fraud Fake Websites
The Supreme Court under CJI Surya Kant has not only spoken out but acted. It has taken suo motu cognizance of several major cyber fraud cases and demanded stronger Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and compensation mechanisms for victims.
National and state agencies, including cyber police units, are increasing efforts to track, investigate, and block digital fraud networks operating across borders.
Call for Citizen Vigilance
A core message from the CJI was citizen education and digital awareness. He urged individuals to:
- Think before clicking links
- Verify the authenticity of websites
- Report suspected fraud quickly to authorities
These are essential steps for safeguarding personal and financial security in the digital age.
Government and Legal System Must Act Together
Experts and legal authorities agree that combating cyber fraud requires a multi-pronged strategy including:
- Stronger laws and enforcement
- Inter-agency cooperation (police, banks, regulators)
- Global partnerships for cross-border cybercrime
- Public awareness and digital literacy campaigns
Such collective action will be key to protecting citizens and maintaining trust in digital systems.
