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India,US among top 10 cybercrime hotspots
India ranks tenth on the list with a WCI score of 6.13, while the United States comes fourth with score of 25.01
Representative image / Image- Pixabay
India and the United States have been identified as global hotspots for cybercrime activity according to the world's first ‘Cybercrime Index’ (WCI) published in the journal PLOS ONE.
India ranks tenth on the list with a WCI score of 6.13, while the United States comes fourth with score of 25.01, indicating substantial exposure to cyber threats. Topping the list is Russia, followed closely by Ukraine and China.
Commenting on the findings, co-author of the study, Dr. Miranda Bruce, stressed on the importance of the index in directing resources effectively to combat cyber threats.
“Our research offers unprecedented insight into the geographical distribution of cybercrime. This enables targeted resource allocation, enhancing global cybersecurity efforts,” she said.
Associate professor Jonathan Lusthaus from the University of Oxford emphasized the challenges in tracking cybercriminal activities due to their elusive nature.
Image credit: Pippa Havenhand. / Countries ranked by their World Cybercrime Index (WCI) score, according to the study. “Cybercriminals often hide behind fake profiles and technical protections, making their physical locations difficult to ascertain,” Dr. Lusthaus highlighted. “Our study, informed by experts engaged in cybercrime intelligence and investigation, provides valuable insights into the spatial distribution of cyber threats.”
Looking ahead, researchers aim to delve deeper into understanding why certain countries emerge as cybercrime hubs. Professor Federico Varese from Sciences Po in France, another co-author, highlighted the importance of analyzing national characteristics in deciphering cybercrime dynamics.
“The World Cybercrime Index is a crucial step towards understanding the localized dimensions of cybercrime production,” Professor Varese stated. “Exploring factors such as educational attainment and levels of corruption can offer insights into the drivers of cybercriminal activities.”
The index was developed by experts from the University of Oxford and UNSW Canberra through a joint partnership between academic institutions and supported by the European Union-funded project CRIMGOV. It provides a vital tool for policymakers and cybersecurity experts to tailor responses effectively.
Titled "Mapping the global geography of cybercrime with the World Cybercrime Index," the study underscores the imperative of international collaboration in tackling the evolving cyber threat landscape. As nations grapple with the challenges posed by cybercrime, the index serves as a roadmap guiding efforts to safeguard cyberspace and fortify global digital infrastructure.
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