Cybercrime needs national-level attention

NEW DELHI, INDIA: A report highlights the measures adopted by several countries across the globe for prevention, detection, investigation and speedier trial of cybercrimes, vis-à-vis the current cybersecurity initiatives in India. While some nations have taken extreme measures based on their political orientation, others have successfully balanced their executive powers granted to such institutions and factors related to individual rights and privacy.

EY released a report titled “Strategic National Measures to Combat Cybercrime: Perspective and Learnings for India” that provides an analysis of the prevailing cyber ecosystem in India and the various measures undertaken by the Government to increase the trustworthiness of cyberspace, as well as in managing issues related with cybercrime.

Rahul Rishi, Partner, Advisory Services, EY says “Cyberattacks and breaches have seen a sharp increase across the globe. The sophistication of these attacks and the persistence of cybercriminals necessitate that organizations set up advanced level security controls to protect themselves. Given the foreseeable risks in the future, the government’s influence in keeping cybercrime in check, with smart detection processes, quick response capabilities and policies that create a high-level of deterrence is imperative to help create an environment for businesses to flourish.”

The report is also said to highlight seven key aspects important for building a strong anti-cybercrime foundation. These suggestions include considering changes in the cyber-physical world to widen the legal framework for cyber laws, a mechanism for online reporting of crimes, and active collaboration with other nations, agencies and bodies, among others.

Adds Burgess Cooper, Partner, Advisory Services, EY: “There is no denying that Cybersecurity is more important than ever today. A number of recent breaches of both private corporations and government institutions are testament to the fact that a robust cybersecurity framework is crucial for any organization. For government agencies, too, there is a clear and present danger of being compromised, and an urgent need to ensure complete safety and rapid response to breaches. Finally, there is a developing trend of organizations being attacked not only for who they are, but who they can give access to.”

With the year on year increase in cybercrime cases, there is an urgent need to establish infrastructure such as advanced cybercrime investigation cell, cyber Forensics Labs, Infrastructure for storage of electronics evidence, as well as develop Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for carrying out investigations. While these are challenges on the ground level, the establishment of a fully operational nodal agency for cybercrime prevention, detection and investigation at the national level will be of immense value to the fight against growing menace of cybercrime.