Cyber security is an essential aspect of national security in the digital world that’s rapidly changing. India’s National Cyber Security Policy was created to protect the country’s vital infrastructure from cyber-threats and its citizens. The article explores the framework of the policy, its key features, and the relevance to the Indian digital environment.
National Cyber Security Policy: Highlights
1. Vision and Objectives
- Vision: Build a resilient and secure cyberspace that is accessible to citizens, business, and government.
- Objectives:
- Create a safe cyberspace eco-system
- Implementing effective measures to protect data with an emphasis on privacy.
- To develop cybercrime resilience mechanisms.
- Build institutional structures to support cyber security.
- Enhancing national capability in ICT and Cyber Security
2. Strategic Framework
National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP) aims to establish a legal, procedural, and technical framework robust and dynamic for protecting cyberspace.
2.1 The establishment of CERT
- Computer Emergency Response Team CERT-In: Co-ordinates cyber incident response and works with other sectors in order to combat cyber threats.
- Roles and Responsibilities
- Keep a central database of all cyber-incidents.
- Provide proactive advice and guidance.
- International Liaison:
2.2 Public-Private Partnership
- The Collaboration between Government and Businesses: Private sector involvement in cyber-security efforts can be a powerful tool to enhance the security of your network.
- Examples:
- Data Protection Infosys, Wipro and other companies have led the way in adopting cyber security and improving it.
- Skills Development: Cyber Security Task Forces such as Nasscom’s Cyber Security Task Force are aimed at upskilling professionals.
2.3 Building Capacity
Building the capacity of cyber incident response in terms technology, personnel, and process.
- Programmes of Skill Development: Programmes for IT professionals and law enforcement personnel.
- Education Initiatives Include cyber-security courses in the curriculum.
3. Legal and regulatory Measures
- IT Act of 2000 India’s legal foundation for cyber-security.
- The Data Protection Laws Data security is a major concern for the impending Personal Data Protection Bill.
- Critical Information Infrastructure Protection: Particular guidelines to protect critical infrastructures such as energy, banking, and defense.
4. Incidence Reporting and Response
Reporting and responding to cyber-incidents quickly is possible with these mechanisms.
- National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC): The Cyber Threat Response Center is a real-time cyber monitoring and response centre.
- Cyber Swachhta Kendra: An analysis and botnet cleaning center aimed at maintaining cyber safety.
Case Studies and Examples
1. WannaCry ransomware attack
WannaCry, a ransomware that was launched in May 2017, has affected various organizations across the globe including India. Significant disruptions were experienced by the Indian banking sector. This incident highlighted the need for resilient cyber security measures. The rapid response of CERT-In which included announcing advisories and coordinating affected parties highlighted the importance having a centralized team.
2. Aadhaar Breach Allegations
Aadhaar’s security has been a major concern, and this led to increased attention on data protection. This incident has accelerated the discussions surrounding the Personal Data Protection Bill, and highlighted the importance of protecting personal information.
3. Digital India Initiative
Digital India is a government initiative that encourages the use of online payment services and digital payments. It was important to ensure the safety of these platforms. The government has taken a proactive approach to cyber security, as evidenced by its collaborations with technology giants and introduction of measures such as the BHIM App.
The Way Forward
1. The Threat Landscape is Changing
Cyber threats are constantly evolving with the advancement of technology. To stay ahead of cyber threats, you need to be constantly researching, innovating, and upgrading security measures.
2. Skills and Awareness
It is urgent to close the skills gap within the domain of cyber security. Training and upgrading of professionals is crucial. Additionally, increasing awareness of cyber hygiene in the general public can help mitigate many cyber-threats.
International Collaboration
Cyber threats can be transnational. Cyber incidents can be better addressed by collaborating with other nations or international organisations.
Questions and Answers about the National Cyber Security Policy
- 1. What is National Cyber Security Policy?
- India’s National Cyber Security Policy is an extensive set of policies, measures and programs aimed at protecting the cyberspace of the nation. The policy outlines strategies for protecting critical national information infrastructures, promoting private-public partnership, and building the country’s capability to mitigate and handle cyber threats.
- 2. Why does the National Cyber Security Policy matter?
- NCSPs are crucial to safeguarding the national interest in cyberspace. The NCSP is responsible for protecting the nation’s interests in cyberspace, including securing vital infrastructure, preventing breaches of data, and safeguarding digital security.
- Who is in charge of implementing the National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP)?
- Implementing the NCSP involves multiple parties. CERT-In is a key player, as are NCCC and other government agencies.
- 4. What is the role of CERT-In in India’s cybersecurity framework?
- CERT In (Computer Emergency Response Team – India) is a team that primarily addresses cyber-security threats and incident. The team provides advisory services, coordinates response to incidents, and works with other international organizations in cyber security to strengthen India’s defenses.
- 5. What is the Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) policy aimed at protecting?
- Critical Information Infrastructures refers to assets and systems that are crucial for public health, safety, national security, or economic security. These sectors include banking, defence, energy, telecoms and transportation.
- 6. What is the cybercrime policy?
- Cybercrime is addressed through strict laws and guidelines. Law enforcement agencies are also strengthened, awareness and cooperation among various stakeholders, as well as a promotion of cyber threats, will be promoted.
- 7. What steps are taken to increase cyber-security capacity?
- There are a number of initiatives being undertaken, such as the addition of special courses to educational curricula and skill-development programs for IT professionals, law enforcement and the government, like Cyber Swachhta Kendra, which analyzes malware.
- 8. What are the ways in which public-private partnerships can be promoted by policy?
- This policy promotes the collaboration of government agencies with private companies to strengthen cyber security. Sharing threat intelligence, implementing best practices and developing joint solutions for countering cyber threats are all part of the policy.
- 9. How do you ensure the protection of data?
- This is an important step. The Personal Data Protection Bill aims at providing strict data security measures. The Personal Data Protection Bill, which aims to provide stringent data security measures, is a significant step.
- 10. How can the individual contribute to cyber security at a national level?
- By practicing good cyber hygiene and staying informed of potential threats. Using strong passwords. Being cautious when sharing personal information on the internet.
