Shocking Incident Raises Alarm
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has revealed a troubling experience involving his teenage daughter, drawing attention to the growing risks of cybercrime in India. Speaking at the launch of Cyber Awareness Month 2025 in Mumbai, the actor disclosed that a stranger attempted to blackmail his daughter while she was playing an online video game.
According to Kumar, the unknown individual demanded that his daughter send inappropriate images. Disturbed by the message, she immediately informed her mother, author and former actress Twinkle Khanna, and stopped playing the game.
“This incident was a bitter but crucial lesson for us,” Kumar told the audience. “The dangers of the digital world are increasing faster than we realize.”
Cybercrime: A Growing Threat
Kumar emphasized that cybercrime has now become “even more dangerous than traditional crimes.” He urged both authorities and parents to recognize the severity of the threat.
In India, cybercrime cases have surged in recent years. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), more than 65,000 cybercrime cases were registered in 2022, marking a sharp rise compared to previous years. Many of these cases involved financial fraud, identity theft, and crimes targeting children through gaming platforms and social media.
Experts warn that India, with its rapidly expanding digital population—over 800 million internet users—is especially vulnerable to such risks.
Kumar’s Appeal to Authorities
During his speech, Kumar appealed directly to the Maharashtra Chief Minister to take urgent action. He proposed that schools make weekly cyber safety classes compulsory for students in grades seven to ten.
“Children must be taught about the dangers of the internet, online exploitation, and the basic principles of digital safety,” he said. “Awareness is the first line of defense.”
If implemented, this would be one of the first state-level initiatives in India to integrate structured digital safety education into school curricula.
Guidance for Parents and Teachers
Kumar also called on parents and educators to remain vigilant about children’s online activities. He urged them to discuss the risks of interacting with strangers, sharing personal information, or sending images through games and chat platforms.
“Predators are targeting innocent minds through online games and messaging apps,” Kumar warned. “It is time for us all to prioritize the digital safety of our children.”
Digital safety experts support this stance. Many recommend that parents install parental controls, monitor gaming interactions, and maintain open communication with their children about the dangers of the online world.
Broader Context in India
India is among the world’s largest markets for mobile gaming, with millions of children and teenagers spending hours online every day. While the sector has created economic opportunities, it has also exposed young users to exploitation.
Cases of cyberbullying, grooming, and online harassment have been reported in major cities, often involving minors. The government has launched campaigns such as the Cyber Safe India initiative, but critics argue that implementation and awareness remain inconsistent, particularly in schools and rural areas.
Looking Ahead
Akshay Kumar’s candid disclosure has sparked widespread discussion on Indian social media. Many parents applauded him for speaking out, noting that the issue is often underreported due to stigma and fear.
Child rights activists believe that public figures like Kumar can play a crucial role in pushing policymakers to act faster. While India has introduced laws against online exploitation, the gap between legislation and enforcement continues to leave young internet users vulnerable.
For Kumar, however, the focus is clear. “We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy,” he said. “Every child deserves to feel safe not just in the real world, but in the digital world as well.”
