Strengthening Cyber Resilience: India’s Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) Cyber Drill
In an era where cyber threats loom larger than ever, the importance of cybersecurity for critical information infrastructure (CII) cannot be overstated. Recently, Kaspersky, in collaboration with the United Service Institution (USI) of India and its CyberPeace Cyber Centre of Excellence (CCoE), conducted a significant cyber drill aimed at enhancing the resilience of India’s CII sectors. This event brought together nearly 100 key stakeholders from various sectors, including oil and gas, power, and defense, underscoring the strategic importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding national interests.
A Gathering of Experts
The cyber drill took place at the USI of India, with the presence of distinguished guests, including Vinai Kumar Kanaujia, the Joint Secretary of the National Security Council of India. His participation highlighted the Indian government’s increasing focus on cybersecurity, especially in light of the potentially devastating impacts of cyberattacks on critical sectors. The event served as a platform for discussing the unique challenges faced by CII sectors and the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.
Keynote Insights: A Paradigm Shift in Cybersecurity
The keynote address was delivered by Genie Sugene Gan, Kaspersky’s Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy for the Asia Pacific, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. She emphasized the necessity for a paradigm shift in how CII sectors approach cybersecurity. Rather than merely reacting to threats as they arise, organizations should aim to build systems that are secure by design. Gan introduced Kaspersky’s Cyber Immunity Vision, advocating for a proactive approach where the cost of a cyberattack outweighs its potential benefits for attackers. This forward-thinking strategy is crucial, as no cybersecurity vendor can guarantee 100% protection.
Interactive Learning: Kaspersky Interactive Protection Simulation (KIPS)
One of the highlights of the event was the Kaspersky Interactive Protection Simulation (KIPS), where participants engaged in scenarios modeled after real-world cyberattack incidents. This hands-on exercise allowed attendees to enhance their decision-making skills and deepen their understanding of cybersecurity principles. The dynamic environment fostered collaboration among various business units, emphasizing that cybersecurity is not solely the responsibility of IT departments but requires a collective effort across organizations.
Building Cyber Resilience Through Collaboration
Major Vineet Kumar, founder and global president of the USI-CyberPeace CCoE, remarked on the significance of such collaborative efforts in strengthening India’s cybersecurity landscape. He noted that the exercise was not just a one-time event but the beginning of ongoing discussions on developing next-generation cybersecurity solutions tailored to the needs of CII sectors. The partnership between Kaspersky and CyberPeace aims to proactively prevent and mitigate cyber risks, ensuring operational continuity and fostering a culture of cybersecurity readiness throughout the ecosystem.
Military Perspectives on Cyber Immunity
The event also featured insights from Major General Pawan Anand, a distinguished fellow at the USI, who discussed the relevance of cyber immunity in the military context. He stressed that safeguarding sensitive military data is paramount, and Kaspersky’s initiatives in this area are commendable. Anand advocated for a proactive approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing that the goal should be to anticipate and neutralize threats before they materialize.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The collaborative cyber drill conducted by Kaspersky and the USI-CyberPeace CCoE marks a significant step towards enhancing the cybersecurity posture of India’s critical information infrastructure. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is imperative for organizations to adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to cybersecurity. By fostering a culture of cyber resilience and investing in innovative solutions, India can better protect its critical sectors from the ever-present threat of cyberattacks.
In a world where the digital landscape is constantly changing, initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that organizations are not just prepared to respond to threats but are equipped to prevent them altogether. The future of cybersecurity lies in collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to building systems that are inherently secure.
For more insights and updates on the latest in the technology and IT sector, follow us on our social media channels:
About CIO News:
CIO News is the premier platform dedicated to delivering the latest news, updates, and insights from the CIO industry. As a trusted source in the technology and IT sector, we provide a comprehensive resource for executives and professionals seeking to stay informed and ahead of the curve. Founded in June 2020, CIO News has rapidly evolved with ambitious growth plans to expand globally, targeting markets in the Middle East & Africa, ASEAN, USA, and the UK.