Cyber Security Essentials: India Edition

Section 1. The Current Cyber Threat Landscape in India 

The digital landscape in India is evolving rapidly, bringing both opportunities and risks. This section provides an overview of the current cyber threat landscape in India, focusing on the emerging trends, attack methods, and their impact on Indian businesses. Participants will gain insights into how cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in sectors such as digital payments, financial services, and government infrastructure. This section emphasizes the need for vigilance in responding to evolving threats. 

Section 2. Modern Cyber Attacks: Threats and Prevention 

Cyber-attacks in India are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting both large organizations and SMEs. In this section, participants will explore common modern cyber threats specific to India, such as Business Email Compromise (BEC), UPI frauds, SIM swapping, and ransomware. They will learn effective prevention strategies and how to recognize attack patterns, understand their impact, and implement best practices to defend against them.

Section 3. Cyber Security Best Practices for Every Professional (10 Core Practices) 

In India’s dynamic business environment, every employee plays a critical role in safeguarding company data and systems. This section covers 10 core cyber security practices, tailored for employees dealing with sensitive business data and interacting with company systems. Each practice is backed by real-world examples and actionable guidance to help employees implement secure behaviors in their daily work. 
3.1. Secure Authentication  Employees must use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accessing company systems, emails, and financial platforms. This helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive business data, particularly in industries like banking, fintech, and healthcare. 

3.2. Identifying and Avoiding Phishing & AI-Driven Scams 

Employees should be cautious about phishing attempts, especially emails impersonating vendors, clients, or company executives. Be vigilant about suspicious links, attachments, or requests for sensitive information, and always verify through official channels. 

3.3. Preventing and Responding to Ransomware Attacks 

Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources, backup data regularly, and be prepared to respond to ransomware threats. If attacked, disconnect from the network immediately and alert the IT team. 

3.4. Identifying and Reporting Cyber Security Incidents 

Recognize and report any unusual activity, unauthorized access attempts, or potential breaches to the security team as soon as possible. Timely reporting can significantly reduce the impact of data breaches. 

3.5. Safe Internet and Email Practices 

Avoid using public Wi-Fi for accessing company systems without a VPN. Always verify email attachments and links before opening them to prevent malware infections. 

3.6. Preventing Data Mishandling & Unauthorized Access 

Follow company policies for handling sensitive data, store files securely, and restrict access to authorized personnel only. 

3.7. Securing Your Mobile Devices 

Secure mobile devices with biometric authentication, encryption, and regular updates. Report lost or stolen devices immediately. 

3.8. Securing Remote Work Environments 

Ensure remote access to company systems is secure by using official VPNs, keeping software up-to-date, and locking your screen when away from your desk. 

3.9. Safe Social Media Use 

Be cautious about sharing company-related information on social platforms. Cybercriminals often use social media to gather information for targeted attacks, particularly on high-level executives. 

3.10. Safe AI Usage Practices 

Use AI tools in line with company policies. Avoid entering confidential information into public AI models and ensure that outputs are accurate and compliant with data protection regulations.

Section 4. Data Protection and Privacy 

This section covers data protection principles, Indian privacy laws, and best practices for securely handling personal and organizational data, ensuring compliance with regulations like the DPDP Act, 2023, IT Act, and IRDAI guidelines.

Section 5. Summary and Results 

In the final section, we recap the essential cybersecurity concepts covered throughout the course. Participants will review their progress, assess their understanding of key topics, and view the cumulative results of the quizzes and assessments they undertook throughout the course. This section also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and maintaining secure behaviors in the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.