Can Telephone Harassment Of Elders Be Dealt Under Cybercrime Laws?

Telephone harassment of elders, including repeated calls, abusive messages, or threats via phone, falls within the ambit of cybercrime laws in many jurisdictions. The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) in India and similar laws elsewhere provide mechanisms to address such harassment and protect senior citizens from digital abuse.

Dealing With Telephone Harassment Under Cybercrime Laws

Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000 (India)

• Sections 66A (though struck down, related provisions on offensive messages remain), 66D (cheating by impersonation), and 66E (privacy violations) can be invoked.
• Section 66A was related to sending offensive messages via communication service but is currently struck down; however, other sections still protect against harassment.

Cyberstalking and Cyber Harassment

• Repeated phone calls, voice messages, or SMS that cause distress may be considered cyberstalking.
• Section 354D of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with stalking, which can include electronic communication.

Telecommunications Laws

• Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) guidelines prohibit unsolicited calls and harassment.
• Complaints can be lodged with telecom service providers and authorities.

Filing Complaints

• Victims can file FIRs at local police stations citing cybercrime harassment.
• Cybercrime cells are equipped to investigate telephone harassment complaints.
• Protection Officers can assist elders in filing and following up complaints.

Preventive Measures

• Use call blocking and do-not-disturb features.
• Report and document harassment incidents.
• Seek legal advice and protection orders if necessary.

Consumer Safety Tips

• Keep a log of all harassing calls and messages with dates and times.
• Avoid sharing personal phone numbers with unknown or suspicious contacts.
• Use official channels to block and report abusive callers.
• Educate elders about safe phone and internet use.
• Contact Protection Officers or cybercrime units promptly when harassment occurs.

Example

Situation:

Mrs. Rani, a senior citizen, received frequent abusive and threatening phone calls from an unknown number.

Steps Taken:

• Mrs. Rani documented the call details and recorded threatening messages.
• She approached the local police and filed a complaint citing cyber harassment.
• The cybercrime cell traced the caller and initiated legal proceedings.
• Protection Officers assisted Mrs. Rani in understanding her rights.
• The court issued an injunction preventing the harasser from making further calls.
• Mrs. Rani felt secure and empowered after the legal intervention.