In a worrying case that underscores the perils of online dating platforms, a 16-year-old boy from Kerala was sexually assaulted by a group he met on an app. Police have charged 14 individuals, including government employees, for their involvement.

This case is part of a disturbing trend observed by the police's Digital De-addiction (D-DAD) programme, an initiative aimed at rehabilitating children addicted to digital platforms. Launched in 2023, the project runs six centers across Kerala, with plans to expand further by the 2025-26 financial year.

Cybersecurity experts warn of the inadequate verification measures on youth-targeted dating apps, facilitating predatory activities. Amid rising concerns, Kerala's government has introduced comprehensive measures, involving various departments,

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