Nepal is rapidly embracing the digital world, but alongside its progress lies a growing danger of cybercrimes. Once considered a distant issue, it has become a serious threat to individuals, businesses, and institutions. From online scams and data breaches to cyberbullying and extortion, digital threats are rising in both number and sophistication.
The expansion of internet access, mobile banking, and smartphones has created countless opportunities. However, weak security systems, lack of awareness, and limited regulation have also left the country vulnerable. Many users do not understand how to stay safe online, making them easy targets.
Cybercrime in Nepal
In 2024 alone, Nepal Police’s Cyber Bureau received more than 7,000 cybercrime complaints. Experts suggest the actual number of incidents is likely much higher, as many victims choose not to report due to feelings of shame, fear, or helplessness.
Cybercrime in Nepal has taken many alarming forms. In April 2025, a 20-year-old Nepali national, Prasan Nepal, was arrested in the US for leading a subgroup of the global cybercriminal network “764 Inferno,” involved in extortion and spreading malicious content. This highlighted how even youth from remote regions are being drawn into international cybercrime.
In another major case, Indian police dismantled a cybercrime ring operating from Nepal and Cambodia. The group hacked Indian bank accounts and stole millions of rupees. Investigations revealed that Nepali citizens were being coerced into taking part in scams involving digital and cryptocurrency fraud.
Social media has become another dangerous avenue. In 2023, a man in Pokhara hacked a Facebook account and tricked the victim’s friend into sending money. Incidents like this show how easily people can fall victim to online deception.
In 2020, one of Nepal’s biggest data breaches occurred when a 16-year-old hacker exposed the personal data of 170,000 users of Vianet Communications. While there was no ransom demand, the breach exposed how poorly some companies safeguard user information.
Rise of cyber harassments
Cyber harassment is also rising. In early 2025, a teenage girl in Kathmandu was blackmailed by an IT student threatening to leak her private photos. The perpetrator was arrested, but the case underlined the growing digital risks facing youth.
Several factors fuel the rise in cybercrime. A key issue is low digital literacy that many new internet users lack basic online safety knowledge, making them vulnerable to phishing and scams.
Organisations especially in the public sector, often lack proper cybersecurity infrastructure. Laws are outdated, and enforcement is weak, allowing cybercriminals to operate with little fear of consequences. The speed at which technology evolves makes it hard for lawmakers and investigators to keep up.
Combined efforts in need
Nepal must act urgently to tackle these growing threats. First, cyber laws should be modernised to clearly define offenses and ensure stricter penalties. Establishing a national cybersecurity authority could improve coordination and incident response.
Public awareness is just as crucial. Digital literacy campaigns especially targeting youth and rural communities can teach safe internet habits. Companies, especially banks and internet providers, must strengthen their security measures and collaborate with authorities. Law enforcement also needs better training and tools to handle digital evidence, trace attackers, and respond effectively to incidents.
Cybercrime in Nepal is no longer a hidden problem. It is a serious and growing threat. Everyday, more people, businesses, and institutions are being affected. However, with stronger laws, better public awareness, and combined efforts from the government, private sector, and citizens, we can still turn things around. By acting now, we have the chance to build a safer digital future for everyone before this silent epidemic becomes too big to control.
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