The Weakest Link
Platforms and Cyber Threats
I would be Ahmedabad over 14-15-16 July 2023 and would be glad to get your insights on Digital Green during the two days of panel and focus group discussion along with couple of site visits and personal interviews with industry leaders and other stakeholder in the MSME space.
Or even meet you perhaps over a hike/short/long run/walking tour. See you soon.
Introducing today’s topic on Cyber security, it is important to note that individual vulnerabilities serve as the origin of cyber crime, as attackers exploit weaknesses in human behavior and decision-making to carry out their malicious activities. Whether through phishing scams, social engineering tactics, or exploiting gaps in cybersecurity awareness, cyber criminals target individuals who may unknowingly fall victim to their schemes.
हमें तो अपनों ने लूटा, गैरों में कहाँ दम था,
मेरी कश्ती थी डूबी वहां, जहाँ पानी कम था
Cyber criminals employ tactics like impersonation, phishing emails, or social media manipulation to gain access to personal information or deceive individuals into sharing sensitive data.
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DTW
During the Week, first-ever analysis conducted by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) on the current cyber threat landscape in the health sector was released. This report presents fresh insights into the reality faced by healthcare organizations as it maps and studies cyber incidents spanning from January 2021 to March 2023. Unveiling prime threats, actors, impacts, and trends, this comprehensive analysis provides a timely snapshot of cyberattacks targeting the health sector over the past two years.
In today's interconnected digital world, the role of platforms in cybersecurity and the battle against social engineering attacks has become increasingly vital. Platforms serve as the gateway through which individuals, businesses, and communities connect, communicate, and share information. However, this digital landscape also presents significant challenges, with cyber threats and social engineering tactics becoming more sophisticated than ever before.
Platforms have both contributed to and mitigated the risks associated with social engineering attacks. On one hand, they provide avenues for attackers to exploit human vulnerabilities, leveraging the trust and engagement users place in these platforms. On the other hand, platforms play a crucial role in raising awareness, implementing security measures, and empowering users to defend themselves against social engineering attacks.
Understanding the dynamic interplay between platforms, cybersecurity, and social engineering is essential for individuals and organizations alike. By comprehending the risks and strategies employed by attackers, platform users can become more vigilant, resilient, and proactive in safeguarding their personal and sensitive information. Simultaneously, platforms must remain proactive in implementing robust security measures, educating users about the risks, and swiftly responding to reported incidents.
In this context, let us explore the multifaceted role that platforms play in the realm of cybersecurity and social engineering. We will delve into the ways platforms have inadvertently facilitated the creation of social engineering attacks, while also examining the significant efforts they have made to combat and prevent such threats.
Platforms, whether social media, e-commerce, or other digital platforms, have a complex relationship with cybersecurity and cyber threats. While platforms offer numerous benefits and opportunities, they also introduce certain risks and challenges. We could understand how platforms have both created and addressed cybersecurity risks for individuals, communities, and enterprises through the following framework:
Creating Cyber Security Risks- With expanded attack surfaces, data breaches and providing social engineering opportunities to cyber criminals, platforms have been responsible for increased cyber crimes.
Expanded Attack Surface: Platforms work at scale and thus often provide a large attack surface, attracting cybercriminals who exploit vulnerabilities in software, systems, or user behavior.
Data Breaches: Platforms accumulate vast amounts of user data, making them attractive targets for hackers seeking to steal personal information or financial data.
Social Engineering Opportunities: As users share lot of personal information on platforms so they can be used as a starting point for social engineering attacks, where cybercriminals are able to manipulate even seasoned users into revealing sensitive information or performing malicious actions.
Addressing Cybersecurity Risks: Over last few years, platforms have invested extraordinary resources in strengthening their security infrastructure, implementing encryption, two-factor authentication, and advanced access controls. This became a business imperative once Facebook was fined $5bn fine as regulator settles Cambridge Analytica complaint. Platforms like Google and Facebook have implemented 2FA, an additional layer of security that requires users to provide a second verification factor, such as a unique code sent to their mobile device, along with their password. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if passwords are compromised. Use of passkeys is another development to promote a secure way to sign in to apps and websites and a major step toward a “passwordless future.”
During the week, I also had the privilege of hosting a fantastic panel discussion on "Cyber Awareness and Cyber Hygiene Practices" at ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, Hyderabad as part of Centre of Excellence for Digital Transformation outreach program. We were joined by our esteemed guests, Abhishek Kumar, Cyber Security at Microsoft, Praveen Kumar Tangella , and Inspector Shagani Ramesh from the Cybercrimes Unit of Telangana State Police.
The workshop fostered a collaborative environment where panelist shared practical tips to navigate the digital landscape safely like safe online browsing, email security, and securing personal and professional devices in both personal and professional lives. We are grateful for the support and involvement of Society For Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) towards helping our students to become responsible digital citizens.
Thanks to DOT - Develop On Technology members for making the workshop a resounding success.
Overall, platforms have both contributed to and addressed cybersecurity risks. They have taken significant steps to enhance security measures, educate users, collaborate with experts, and respond to incidents promptly. However, individual users, communities, and enterprises also play a crucial role in adopting good cybersecurity practices and staying vigilant against evolving threats in the platform ecosystem. After all, just like in mountaineering or rock climbing, where the strength of the chain is determined by its weakest link, the same holds true in protecting against cyber threats. No matter how advanced our security measures are, it only takes one vulnerable point for cybercriminals to exploit.
Together, we can build a safer and more secure cyber world.
OTW
Over the Weekend, I was part of the annual Trek to Khajaguda organised by Club Prakriti | The Official Nature and Adventure Club of IBS Hyderabad |.
As some of you would recall, I am a huge fan of including outdoor adventures like trekking and bouldering as part of management education. These activities cultivate resilience, teamwork, and confidence—qualities crucial for success. Multiple episodes during these outdoor pursuits teach problem-solving, adaptability, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Moreover, the outdoors offer a valuable perspective on risk-taking and calculated decision-making. Just like climbing a challenging rock or navigating a tricky boulder, business decisions involve assessing risks, considering alternatives, and taking calculated leaps. By experiencing the thrill of conquering physical challenges in nature, you develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure—attributes that will serve you well in making sound business decisions.The confidence you gain from outdoor adventures translates into your ability to make informed decisions, even in uncertain circumstances.
If you are new to adventure sports, step into the gripping world of 'Free Solo,' a breathtaking documentary that chronicles the awe-inspiring journey of Alex Honnold as he attempts to conquer El Capitan's imposing rock face without any ropes or safety gear, defying all odds and pushing the boundaries of human achievement in the pursuit of his passion for free solo climbing
To conclude, I have seen participants fostering a connection with nature while getting clarity and inspiration for fresh perspectives. By challenging our limits, we can develop confidence, discipline, and a "can-do" attitude essential for effective leadership. The lessons you learn, the memories you create, and the personal growth you experience during this intense period of will shape you into well-rounded and resilient managers.
I would love to hear more about your journey, both in the wilderness and your management career.
I Love You.
Shailendra
OTM
Opportunities through MountainSpeak are available with Digital Green.
First consultation of Digital Green would be hosted by IBS Ahmedabad over 14-15-16 July 2023 and we would love to get your insights on Digital Green.
This initiative aims to facilitate the interface of digital transformation and environmental sustainability, providing MSEs with the tools and knowledge to adopt and implement digital solutions that support their transition to sustainable and green production processes.Digital Green envisions a future where MSEs in India embrace digital transformation to drive their sustainability practices.
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