Keralam’s Online Safety Push Targets Fraud, Cyberbullying and AI Misuse

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Tuesday said the state government would examine the increasing misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cyberspace and strengthen efforts to promote responsible digital behaviour through the Cyber Safe Keralam initiative.

Replying to a question raised by Congress MLA V S Joy during Question Hour in the state Assembly, Chennithala said the initiative aims to build a sustainable and responsible digital society by encouraging individuals, communities and institutions to use digital platforms responsibly.

The minister expressed concern over the misuse of social media and other online platforms to spread hostility among people and create rivalry between religious communities. The initiative seeks to counter such trends through awareness and responsible online behaviour, he said.

Cyber Safe Keralam, recently launched by the cyber wing of the state police, will be expanded further after consultations with experts in the field, Chennithala said.

He also acknowledged that cybercrime, including online financial fraud, cyberbullying, social media misuse and offences against children, had become a growing concern at the national and international levels.

The government launched the initiative soon after coming to power to address these challenges, the minister said, adding that public awareness was the first step towards preventing cybercrime and reducing the misuse of digital platforms.

Chennithala further said that despite Keralam achieving 100 per cent literacy, a digital divide continued to exist in the state. As a result, many people remained vulnerable to cyber fraud, he added.

The initiative aims to promote awareness of online risks and encourage safer digital practices among individuals and institutions. The government plans to strengthen the programme through further consultations with experts, although specific timelines for its expansion were not announced.

The minister's remarks came amid concerns over the misuse of artificial intelligence and digital platforms, including their use to spread misleading content and create social tensions.

The state government said the initiative would focus on awareness and responsible digital behaviour as part of its efforts to address emerging cyber threats.