PM Modi warns of Darknet, Metaverse, & Crypto risks, calls for global cybersecurity efforts

In a recent interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growing threats posed by terrorists who are increasingly using the Darknet, Metaverse, and cryptocurrency to advance their malicious agendas.

He emphasised the potential repercussions of such activities on the social fabric of nations and called for international collaboration to combat cybercrimes. PM Modi acknowledged that cyberspace has introduced a new dimension to the fight against illicit financial activities and terrorism.

Here is my interview with @PTI_News in which I share my thoughts on a wide range of issues, notably India’s G20 Presidency, our efforts to give voice to the Global South, the emphasis on human-centric development and more. https://t.co/gZhDJGz5sU

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 3, 2023

Terrorists embrace Darknet, Metaverse, & Cryptocurrency

Prime Minister Modi underscored the alarming trend of terrorists exploiting emerging technologies like the Darknet, Metaverse, and cryptocurrency to further their nefarious objectives. He cautioned that these developments could have far-reaching consequences for the stability and cohesion of societies.

Urgent need for global cooperation

PM Modi stressed that addressing cyber threats is not merely desirable but inevitable in today's interconnected world. He noted that cyber terrorism, online radicalisation, and money laundering are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the challenges posed by the digital realm.

He called for comprehensive international cooperation and urged the establishment of a convention to counter the criminal use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

Combating disinformation & fake news

The Prime Minister also drew attention to the issue of disinformation and fake news, warning that they can sow chaos and undermine the credibility of news sources. He expressed the need for a concerted effort to counter these challenges, which can be instrumental in fueling social unrest.

India's role in the global cybersecurity landscape

PM Modi highlighted India's proactive role in addressing cybersecurity concerns by hosting a G20 Conference on Crime and Security in the Age of NFTs, Artificial Intelligence, and Metaverse in July.

During this conference, participants expressed concerns about malicious cyber activities that violate established norms and international law.

The Prime Minister emphasised the complex nature of cyber threats, with perpetrators, assets, and funding originating from different regions. He stressed that effective countermeasures require cooperation among all nations involved in the chain of cyberattacks.

Rising global cybersecurity challenges

The interview comes amid a surge in cyberattacks globally, with India being a prime target for hacktivists launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Reports also indicate that cybercrimes, including theft of IT equipment and data, digital espionage, and sabotage, are imposing substantial financial burdens on nations like Germany.

In response to the growing threats, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has issued alerts about fake emails impersonating high-ranking officials and has cautioned government employees and individuals against responding to such fraudulent communications.

Prime Minister Modi's call for international collaboration underscores the need for concerted efforts to safeguard the digital realm and protect nations from the evolving challenges posed by cybercriminals.