Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security;
6. Owing to the technological complexity and anonymity associated with social media, it has become a safe haven for cybercrimes. Critically analyse to what extent the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 will reduce crimes on social media? (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed concern over fake news being spread over social media platforms and web portals stating that they exhibit no accountability.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the complexity of cybercrimes and the scope of Information Technology) Rules 2021 in reducing it.
Directive word:
Critically analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by highlighting the mass forum that social media opens up but with a lot of potential crimes such as cyberstalking, hacking of personal data, cybertheft etc.
Body:
Bring out the impact of above. Cite facts and figures to substantiate your points.
List out the various provisions brought out by the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 such as the social media entities to have a Grievance Redressal Officer (GRO), having the ability to trace the first source of an information in matters of sovereignty and Integrity of India etc.
Mention the challenges posed with the rules such as compromise of Individual privacy, technological challenges in tracing of information etc.
Suggest additional measures that are needed to make social media a safe space.
Conclusion:
Conclude by saying the striking a balance between the fundamental rights and their reasonable restrictions has been a constant challenge, even more so in the digital world.
