By Dr. T.A. Ashok Kumar, Professor & Director, School of Science & Computer Studies, CMR University, Bengaluru
India, with its rapidly expanding digital footprint, has become a significant target for cyber attacks. As the country embraces digital transformation, the vulnerabilities in its cyber infrastructure have also increased, leading to a surge in cybercrimes. From phishing and ransomware to sophisticated data breaches and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, the spectrum of cyber threats is vast and continually evolving.
One of the most notable incidents was the 2020 cyber-attack on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, which raised alarm about the security of critical infrastructure. Similarly, the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 affected numerous businesses and institutions, highlighting the widespread impact of such threats. These incidents underscore the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.
The government sector is a prime target for cybercriminals, with breaches like the Aadhaar data leak in 2018 exposing sensitive personal information of millions. The financial sector, too, faces significant risks, exemplified by the 2016 Union Bank of India breach, where hackers siphoned off $171 million through a phishing attack. The corporate sector is not immune, with cyber-attacks on businesses like Big Basket compromising millions of user accounts.
The healthcare sector has also been increasingly targeted, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with attacks disrupting critical services and compromising patient data. Despite these challenges, there are significant gaps in awareness and infrastructure. Many organizations lack basic cybersecurity practices and the skilled professionals needed to combat these threats.
In response, the Indian government has launched initiatives like the National Cyber Security Policy and the establishment of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). These measures aim to create a secure and resilient cyberspace, but much more needs to be done. The proposed Personal Data Protection Bill is a step in the right direction, aiming to enhance data protection laws and user privacy.
Private companies are also taking proactive steps by investing in advanced security technologies and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial for effective cybersecurity, along with international cooperation to address the global nature of cyber threats.
As India continues its digital journey, the importance of robust cybersecurity cannot be overstated. By fostering awareness, investing in skills and infrastructure, and enhancing policy frameworks, India can build a resilient cyberspace and secure its digital future.