Cyber Security Conclave 2024: Strategies for Robust Cyber Protection Discussed

New Delhi: The Cyber Security Conclave 2024, jointly organized by the Common Services Centers (CSC) and the United Service Institution (USI), was held in New Delhi, focusing on vital strategies for bolstering cyber security.

With cyber threats evolving rapidly and data breaches becoming more frequent, the conclave emphasized the importance of maintaining strong cybersecurity frameworks. Companies are increasingly vulnerable, and breaches can lead to significant financial losses and damage to trust and reputation.

During the program’s inauguration, S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the critical role of CSC in extending technology and information to the last mile. He stressed, “Security is not just about systems, but also about behavior, knowledge, and habits. One of the major risks we face is the end user who may overlook the importance of cyber protection, often sharing PIN numbers and increasing vulnerabilities.”

Krishnan further noted the importance of the partnership between CSC and USI, stating, “Digitalization enhances productivity and centralizes data, promoting a robust digital economy. Awareness of cyber risks is crucial to avoid becoming victims of fraud. Through this conference, we aim to learn new measures that MeitY can implement to strengthen our cyber protection strategies.”

Welcoming the guests, Sanjay Rakesh, MD and CEO-CSC SPV, emphasized the need for cyber resilience and cost-effective solutions. He said, “This conference provides a platform to discuss ways to improve cybersecurity, focusing on robust data management and strategies to prevent cyber threats and thefts. By developing a cyber think tank, we aim to foster innovative solutions and create a more user-friendly cyber system.”

A panel discussion on “Emerging Cyber Threats, Trends, and Solutions” featured key speakers, including Major General (Dr.) Pawan Anand (Retd.), Maj Vineet Kumar, Founder of Cyber Peace Foundation, Col. Rahul Modgil, CISO of EPFO, Shri Rakesh Maheshwari, Senior Director (Retd.), MeitY, Hiral Sharma, Head-Solution Architect-Public Sector India and SAARC, Fortinet, and Anurag Chandra, CISO, Defence & Aviation.

During the event, an MoU was signed between CSC and USI to further strengthen cyber security initiatives.

Other prominent speakers included Inder Chaudhry, Business Head – Cyber Security, Mitkat Advisory, Ashutosh Bahuguna, Scientist ‘F’, Cert-IN, Kausik Halder, National Cyber Security Scholar, CoE, Govt. of West Bengal, Rohit Bhurani, Solution Architect- Fortinet, Vikas Awasthi, Director Government and PSU Business- Checkpoint, and Ankit Guglani, Sr. Principal Consultant- TrendMicro.

Cyber security has always been a primary focus for CSC, which has launched the Cyber Rakshak program in rural and remote areas in collaboration with leading IT infrastructure service providers worldwide. This training initiative has equipped women with new technology skills, helping them emerge as cyber security ambassadors.