CYBER SECURITY Archives - Industry4o.com

AI Integrity in Cyber Defence

Author4o — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:03:10 +0000

AI Integrity in Cyber Defence : Navigating Innovation and Responsibility

Artificial intelligence has become a central component in modern cyber defence strategies, offering advanced capabilities to detect threats, respond to incidents, and manage vulnerabilities. As AI systems grow in sophistication, ethical considerations have moved to the forefront demanding scrutiny of how these technologies are developed and deployed. Ensuring that innovation is balanced with accountability maintaining trust and effectiveness in cyber security.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cyber defence systems has brought about transformative changes in how organisations protect themselves against digital threats. As AI-driven technologies become increasingly sophisticated, they offer enhanced capabilities for threat detection, rapid response, and system resilience. However, the deployment of AI within this domain raises important ethical considerations, such as the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in automated decision-making processes. Balancing technological innovation with responsible practice is essential to ensure that cyber defence strategies remain both effective and ethically sound.

Snapshot of the Current Landscape:

Recent years have seen a surge in the adoption of AI-driven tools across the cyber defence sector. Organisations are leveraging machine learning for real-time threat detection, automated incident response, and predictive analytics to anticipate future risks. The integration of AI into cyber security operations is accelerating, with industry and government bodies actively exploring its potential. However, this progress is matched by growing debate around ethical governance and responsible use.

Some of the evolving trends while adapting to AI in the current landscape are:

✦ Rapid Adoption: Over 60% of cyber defence organisations in Europe have integrated AI-driven solutions into their security operations as of 2026.

✦ Investment Surge: Global investment in AI-powered cyber security tools reached approximately £15 billion in 2025, marking a 25% year-on-year increase.

✦ Ethical Concerns: 72% of IT professionals cite ethical challenges—such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and transparency—as major considerations when deploying AI in cyber defence.

✦ Regulatory Developments: The EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, expected to take effect in late 2026, will require organisations to conduct robust ethical risk assessments of AI systems used in cyber security.

✦ Industry Collaboration: Leading technology firms (e.g., Microsoft, IBM, and Darktrace) have formed cross-sector alliances to establish ethical guidelines and best practices for AI in cyber defence.

AI Threat Detection: AI-powered solutions are now responsible for detecting over 85% of all cyber threats in real time, significantly reducing incident response times.

✦ Talent Shortage: There is an estimated shortfall of 30,000 skilled professionals in ethical AI and cyber defence across the UK and Ireland.

✦ Public Trust: According to recent surveys, only 43% of the public fully trust AI systems to manage sensitive cyber defence tasks, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability.

✦ Notable Initiatives: The Cyber Ethics Consortium (launched in 2025) brings together industry leaders, academics, and regulators to address emerging ethical challenges in AI deployment.

✦ Future Outlook: Experts predict that ethical AI will become a cornerstone of cyber defence strategies by 2030, with increased emphasis on explainable AI, fairness, and human oversight.

Risks and Challenges:

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cyber defence brings forth a host of ethical considerations, risks, and challenges. One primary concern is the potential for AI systems to act autonomously, making decisions that may inadvertently infringe upon privacy or civil liberties. For instance, automated threat detection tools could lead to excessive surveillance or the collection of sensitive personal data without proper oversight.

Another significant risk involves bias in AI algorithms. If the data used to train these systems is unrepresentative or skewed, the resulting models may discriminate against certain groups or produce inaccurate threat assessments. This raises questions about fairness, accountability, and transparency in cyber defence operations.

There are also challenges related to the rapid evolution of cyber threats. AI can adapt and learn, but adversaries can exploit vulnerabilities in AI-driven defences, leading to an ongoing arms race between attackers and defenders. Ensuring robust ethical frameworks and human like –

✦ Potential infringement on privacy and civil liberties due to autonomous AI decision-making.

✦ Excessive surveillance and collection of sensitive personal data without adequate oversight.

✦ Bias in AI algorithms resulting from unrepresentative or skewed training data.

✦ Discrimination against certain groups and inaccurate threat assessments.

✦ Rapid evolution of cyber threats leading to vulnerabilities in AI-driven defences.

✦ Need for ethical frameworks and human oversight to maintain trust.

✦ Challenges in balancing security needs with ethical principles, requiring thoughtful regulation and dialogue.

Finally, policymakers and practitioners must carefully balance security needs with ethical principles, fostering dialogue and regulation to guide responsible AI development in cyber defence.

Industry Best Practices:

To address these challenges, organisations are adopting robust governance structures and ethical frameworks. Best practices include regular audits of AI models, clear documentation of decision-making processes, and adherence to compliance standards. Collaboration between industry, academia, and policy makers is vital to establish guidelines that promote responsible AI use. Training and awareness programmes further support ethical deployment by fostering a culture of accountability.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cyber defence has introduced significant ethical considerations for organisations and practitioners. As AI systems become more sophisticated in detecting, preventing, and responding to cyber threats, it is essential to ensure their deployment aligns with ethical principles and industry standards.

✦ Transparency and Accountability: Organisations must ensure that AI-driven cyber defence tools operate transparently, with clear documentation of decision-making processes. Accountability mechanisms should be in place to address errors or unintended consequences.

✦ Bias and Fairness: To prevent discrimination, it is crucial to regularly audit AI algorithms for bias. Training data should be diverse, and results should be monitored to ensure fair treatment of all users and entities.

✦ Privacy Protection: AI systems in cyber defence often process sensitive data. Adhering to data protection regulations, minimising data collection, and anonymising information where possible are best practices to safeguard individual privacy.

✦ Human Oversight: While AI can automate many aspects of cyber defence, human experts should remain involved in critical decision-making, especially in situations requiring ethical judgement or where the consequences of errors are significant.

✦ Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: Ethical AI deployment is an ongoing process. Regular reviews and updates of AI systems help address evolving threats, technological advances, and emerging ethical challenges.

✦ Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Industry collaboration helps establish and maintain best practices. Sharing experiences, challenges, and solutions across organisations fosters a community committed to ethical AI use in cyber defence.

By adhering to these best practices, organisations can leverage AI to enhance their cyber defence capabilities while maintaining public trust and upholding ethical standards.

Balancing Innovation with Accountability:

Responsible AI deployment requires a strategic approach that integrates ethical considerations into every stage of development and operation. Strategies include establishing clear accountability mechanisms, investing in explainable AI, and engaging stakeholders in oversight. By prioritising transparency and fairness, organisations can harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding against ethical pitfalls.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cyber defence strategies is transforming the way organisations and governments protect digital assets. AI-driven systems are capable of rapidly detecting and responding to threats, analysing vast amounts of data, and adapting to evolving cyber risks. However, this technological leap comes with significant ethical considerations that must be addressed to ensure responsible deployment.

One of the primary ethical challenges involves maintaining accountability in automated decision-making. As AI systems become more autonomous, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines regarding who is responsible for actions taken by these technologies. Transparency in algorithmic processes and robust oversight mechanisms are necessary to prevent unintended consequences, such as unjustified surveillance or discrimination.

Furthermore, the use of AI in cyber defence raises questions about privacy and the potential for misuse. While AI can enhance security, it may also infringe upon individual rights if not governed appropriately. Striking a balance between safeguarding digital infrastructures and respecting civil liberties requires ongoing dialogue among stakeholders, including technologists, policymakers, and the public.

To achieve ethical innovation in cyber defence, organisations must prioritise fairness, accountability, and transparency in their AI systems. This involves regular auditing, ethical training for developers, and the implementation of frameworks that guide responsible use. Ultimately, the goal is to harness the benefits of AI while upholding ethical standards that protect both society and the integrity of digital environments.

The future of AI in cyber defence is promising, but it hinges on a steadfast commitment to ethical principles. By following best practices, addressing risks, and promoting responsible innovation, cybersecurity professionals and policy makers can ensure AI technologies protect critical assets without compromising integrity. Continued collaboration and vigilance will be essential as the ethical landscape evolves.

About the Author :

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Award winning Technology Leader.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Senior Cyber Risk and Resilience executive with over 22 years of global leadership experience advising Boards and Executive Committees across Financial Services, Healthcare, Retail, Technology, and regulated industries.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu has delivered and led large-scale, regulator-driven cybersecurity, AI driven, PCI, and SOC transformations for Tier-1 banks, global healthcare organisations, and highly regulated enterprises operating across the UK, EU, USA, APAC, and ANZ.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a trusted advisor to Boards, C-suite, regulators, and global enterprises, consistently delivering resilient, compliant, and scalable cyber operating models.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Advisory Member in National Cyber Defence Research Centre (NCDRC)

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member at CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an ambassador at ISAC

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

Disclaimer :

“The views and opinions expressed by Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu in this article are solely her own and do not represent the views of her company or her customers.”

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post AI Integrity in Cyber Defence appeared first on Industry4o.com.

How Manufacturers Can Win at Industry 4.0 – Without Losing Sleep Over Cyber Risk

Author4o — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:02:59 +0000

How Manufacturers Can Win at Industry 4.0 – Without Losing Sleep Over Cyber Risk

Walk into a modern plant today and you’ll see robots, sensors, tablets, and dashboards everywhere… and at least a few people quietly hoping the line doesn’t go down before the next truck is due at the dock.

Manufacturers are all-in on Industry 4.0 because it delivers real business outcomes:

• More visibility from real-time shop-floor data

• Predictive maintenance that prevents unplanned downtime

• Smarter inventory management so capital isn’t trapped on shelves

But the same connectivity that powers those gains is also expanding the attack surface in a big way. Mr. Rick Dill’s role at Side Channel, working with our Enclave platform, Mr. Rick Dill sit right in the middle of that tension: help plants move faster with digital transformation, while keeping both OT and IT safer.

Below is how leading manufacturers are doing it—and how Enclave can quietly become an enabler rather than a blocker.

Industry 4.0 in Practice: Visibility, Prediction, and Precision

1. Real-time visibility across the shop floor

A big shift in manufacturing is treating the shop floor as a live data source instead of a black box.

Vendors like Augmentir describe shop floor data capture as collecting real-time information on machine status, production, quality, and labor so supervisors can act in the moment rather than days later.

Common patterns include:

• IoT sensors streaming equipment status

• MES/MOM systems capturing WIP and cycle times

• Connected worker platforms digitizing work instructions and feedback

This data gives operations leaders immediate visibility into bottlenecks, quality drift, and asset performance—exactly what Industry 4.0 is supposed to deliver.

2. Predictive maintenance as the default

Predictive maintenance has moved from “nice idea” to “cornerstone” of smart manufacturing.

Recent reviews of predictive maintenance in Industry 4.0 highlight how manufacturers are using IoT sensor networks plus machine learning to predict failures before they happen, using signals like vibration, temperature, and pressure.

Concrete examples from studies and white papers:

• Vibration, temperature, and pressure sensors feed analytics platforms that predict when key components are likely to fail.

• Smart sensors and edge analytics reduce reliance on manual inspections and allow maintenance to be scheduled when it actually matters.

The outcome: fewer surprises, longer asset life, and less unplanned downtime.

3. Inventory management that behaves like a real-time system

Inventory used to be a static view in the ERP. In Industry 4.0, it’s becoming a real-time data feed.

A 2025 Forbes Technology Council article on inventory in Industry 4.0 describes how edge technologies, industrial scanning, and vision systems are turning inventory from a back-office function into a live operational signal.

Meanwhile, research on smart factories shows IoT can improve inventory management by providing real-time visibility into inventory levels and movements, which reduces costs and improves efficiency.

Practically, that looks like:

• Edge devices and scanners tracking material flow on the line

• Automated reorder triggers tied to real usage

• Integration between WMS, MES, and ERP so inventory reflects the actual state of production

Put together, visibility, prediction, and precision give manufacturers a powerful Competitive edge. But they also come with a trade-off.

The Trade-Off: IT/OT Convergence Expands the Attack Surface

To unlock these Industry 4.0 gains, manufacturers are rapidly connecting OT—PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robots—to corporate IT networks and cloud analytics.

A 2025 Telstra International / Omdia white paper on secure manufacturing reports that across the US, Latin America, and Europe, 70% of OT systems in manufacturing firms will soon be connected to corporate IT networks, up from 50%, driven by use cases like predictive maintenance, autonomous systems, and real-time inventory.

At the same time, an Omdia study summarized in 2025 found that 80% of manufacturing firms experienced a significant increase in security incidents or breaches in the last year, but only 45% felt adequately prepared.

On top of that, multiple years of IBM’s X-Force Threat Intelligence Index show that manufacturing has become the most attacked industry globally:

• Coverage of the IBM X-Force reports notes that manufacturing has topped the list of most-attacked industries for at least three to four consecutive years, representing roughly a quarter of observed incidents.

So manufacturers are caught in a real tension:

“We need more connectivity and data to compete—but every new connection feels like another potential breach.”

The challenge is even sharper because OT environments weren’t originally built for cyber resilience. Reviews of OT security repeatedly point out that legacy control systems were designed for uptime and safety, not modern cybersecurity, and often rely on aging operating systems and fragile protocols.

Remote access adds another wrinkle. Many plants still rely on traditional VPNs and legacy remote desktop tools to give OEMs and integrators access—approaches that security teams increasingly see as high-risk because they create broad tunnels into critical networks.

This is exactly where Zero Trust and microsegmentation move from “security buzzwords” to business enablers for Industry 4.0.

Where Enclave Comes In: Security That Understands the Factory Floor

Enclave, from SideChannel, is a unified Zero Trust security platform built around three core capabilities:

1. Identify everything – always-on asset intelligence

2. Segment everything – software-defined microsegmentation

3. Secure everything – Zero Trust access and encrypted overlays

SideChannel’s own product documentation describes Enclave as providing automated microsegmentation, asset intelligence, and integrated security controls through an overlay network that sits on top of your existing infrastructure.

Here’s how that maps directly to typical manufacturing environments.

1. Visibility: Asset discovery and traffic mapping across OT + IT

Most manufacturers don’t have a single, live picture of what’s on their networks—especially not in OT.

Enclave maintains an up-to-date asset inventory and maps how devices communicate, so you can see servers, workstations, IoT devices, and OT endpoints, and how they’re actually talking.

For a plant, that means:

• Identifying all the PLCs, historians, HMIs, robots, and engineering workstations

• Seeing how MES, quality, and ERP systems tie back into the floor

• Spotting unknown or unauthorized devices before they become someone’s beachhead

This complements the operational visibility you’re already building with shop-floor data capture, giving you security visibility alongside production visibility.

2. Micro segmentation: Creating enclaves around lines, cells, and systems

Rather than one big flat network, Enclave creates software-defined enclaves—isolated micro segments—around specific groups of assets. The security model documentation describes how Enclave’s overlay network allows you to define tightly controlled segments and policies that limit communication between them.

In manufacturing, those enclaves might group:

• A production line (PLCs, drives, safety controllers, HMIs)

• A robotic cell with sensors, controllers, and vision systems

• MES and quality systems

• Warehouse systems and WMS servers

Policies are based on identity and context, not just IP ranges, so you can enforce rules like:

• “This vendor can only access this one PLC, through this path, during a maintenance window.”

• “This analytics platform can read process data from the historian, but cannot send commands back into the control network.”

Zero Trust guidance from organizations like the NSA explicitly recommends segmentation to limit lateral movement and reduce breach impact; SideChannel’s own blog highlights how Enclave’s microsegmentation aligns with those recommendations.

If an attacker does get in, tight microsegmentation drastically reduces the blast radius.

3. Secure remote access: Replace broad VPNs with scoped Zero Trust access

Manufacturing depends on remote access for OEMs, integrators, and support engineers—but broad VPN tunnels into OT are increasingly hard to justify.

Enclave is positioned as a Zero Trust replacement for traditional VPNs, combining micro segmentation, access control, and encryption so every connection is authenticated, authorized, and limited to exactly what’s required.

Benefits for the plant:

• Vendors and remote engineers get scoped access only to the systems they need

• Access can be time-bound and audited

• There are no “open doors” into the broader OT network hidden behind a generic VPN profile

You keep the uptime benefits of remote support, without accepting the historical level of cyber risk.

4. Flexible deployment: Cloud, on-prem, or hybrid

Enclave is built to run across cloud, on-prem, and hybrid environments, providing the same policy and segmentation model regardless of where workloads live.

That matters for manufacturers who:

• Have on-prem OT, but cloud-based analytics for predictive maintenance

• Want to roll out Zero Trust incrementally, line by line or site by site

• Need to respect regulatory or customer requirements around data residency

You don’t need to redesign your entire network to get started.

Connecting the Dots: How This Supports Your Industry 4.0 Objectives

To make this very tangible, here’s how Enclave directly supports the three big Industry 4.0 outcomes we started with.

Outcome 1: Better visibility → trusted real-time data

Industry 4.0 use cases depend on accurate, trustworthy data from the floor. Studies on smart factories emphasize that IoT and AI-driven analytics only work if the underlying data is reliable and secure.

Enclave helps by:

• Ensuring only authorized systems and identities can interact with key data sources (PLCs, historians, MES, and connected worker platforms)

• Limiting paths attackers can use to tamper with sensor data or dashboards

Result: your “single source of truth” dashboards for OEE, quality, and throughput are that much more trustworthy.

Outcome 2: Predictive maintenance → secure connectivity for sensors and analytics

Predictive maintenance research consistently highlights IoT sensors plus analytics platforms as the foundation of modern maintenance strategies.

Enclave supports this by:

• Creating enclaves that link OT assets (motors, drives, lines) with the analytics platforms that consume their data

• Restricting remote access so that OEMs and integrators can help maintain systems without exposing the broader network

Result: you keep the upside of predictive maintenance—less downtime, longer asset life—without opening unnecessary doors into your control systems.

Outcome 3: Inventory management → resilience for your digital nervous system

Real-time inventory is now a core operational signal. Forbes and research on smart factories both highlight how Industry 4.0 turns inventory into a real-time stream that feeds supply chain and production decisions.

Enclave contributes by:

• Segmenting critical inventory and WMS systems from general IT and internet-facing services

• Cutting down the risk that a ransomware incident on the business side brings your material flow and shipping operations to a halt

Result: more resilient supply chain execution, even when your security team is dealing with an incident elsewhere in the environment.

Questions to Take Back to Your Team

If you’re responsible for digital transformation, OT, or security in a manufacturing environment, here are a few questions worth asking internally:

• Do we have a current, accurate inventory of all assets across OT and IT?

• If a single workstation on the floor was compromised, how far could an attacker realistically move today?

• How many vendors have remote access into our OT, and is that access narrowly scoped and monitored, or is it still broad VPN access?

• Are our predictive maintenance and real-time inventory projects being designed with Zero Trust and segmentation from day one, or are we bolting security on later?

If those questions are hard to answer, you’re not alone—and that’s precisely the gap Enclave is meant to fill.

Final Thought

Industry 4.0 isn’t optional anymore. The manufacturers who win will be the ones who can confidently connect more—more systems, more sensors, more partners—without accepting uncontrolled cyber risk.

At Side Channel, Enclave is built to make that possible by helping you:

Identify, segment, and secure everything—without slowing down your transformation.

If you’re exploring how to secure your own Industry 4.0 journey—whether it’s predictive maintenance, smart inventory, or IT/OT convergence—feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to compare notes and walk through what this could look like in your environment.

About the Author :

Mr. Rick Dill
Account Executive
SideChannel

Every successful relationship depends on trust as its essential base and cybersecurity sales require this principle more than any other field.

Mr. Rick Dill’s twenty years of experience in IT and cybersecurity have allowed him to help organizations protect themselves through the combination of modern technology and authentic business partnerships.

As an Enterprise Account Executive at SideChannel Mr. Rick Dill assist mid-market and enterprise organizations to implement Zero Trust solutions through simplified paths.

The Enclave micro segmentation platform from SideChannel enables security leaders to protect vital systems through practical segmentation which reduces attack points and stops attackers from spreading while maintaining operational continuity. The combination of SideChannel’s vCISO expertise with our Enclave micro segmentation platform enables organizations to achieve “cyber invincibility” through scalable protection that goes beyond marketing slogans.

Mr. Rick Dill’s previous work at Cyngular Security and SurePassID and GoSecure led to 30% annual revenue growth and 40% better detection and response performance.

Mr. Rick Dill’s sales strategy combines strategic business execution with technical expertise which he developed through his previous work as a systems engineer and network architect at Cisco and Tufin and MobileIron.

Mr. Rick Dill’s experience as a New Hampshire Certified Groomer and Seven Lakes Snowmobile Club Vice President helps him stay connected to teamwork and leadership while serving his community.

Mr. Rick Dill’s approach to trail maintenance and Zero Trust implementation shares the same qualities of teamwork and precise execution and constant progress.

Mr. Rick Dill’s is available to discuss network security strategies and compliance acceleration and Zero Trust adoption or share experiences about constructing strong systems in cybersecurity and everyday life.

Mr. Rick Dill’s Can be contacted at:

Linked In

About SideChannel

SideChannel protects mid-market to enterprise organizations with cutting-edge cybersecurity technology and services to achieve near cyber-invincibility.

SideChannel Enclave patented microsegmentation technology isolates critical systems by creating secure, software-defined networks that reduce attack surfaces without requiring complex infrastructure changes. With rapid deployment and granular access controls, Enclave strengthens security and limits lateral movement.

SideChannel’s vCISO services provide hands-on leadership expertise, offering tailored risk assessments, compliance guidance, incident response planning, and security program development. By combining advanced technology with real world expertise, SideChannel defends organizations against evolving cyber threats with scalable, more cost-effective solutions than our competitors.

Learn more about how your organization can become cyber-invincible at
https://sidechannel.com/

SideChannel Can be contacted at :

Linked In | Instagram | Facebook | You Tube | Website

The post How Manufacturers Can Win at Industry 4.0 – Without Losing Sleep Over Cyber Risk appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Next Gen Cyber Security for AI Powered Cyber Threats

Author4o — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:30:50 +0000

When Hackers Employ AI: Is It Time to Rethink our Security Defences ?

When Hackers Employ AI: Is It Time to Rethink our Security Defences?

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) across industries has changed countless capabilities, delivering benefits in efficiency, automation, and innovation. However, the same technology has also become a powerful weapon in the hands of predators, essentially altering the landscape of digital threats and malicious activities. As cybercriminals leverage AI to craft more clever and obscure attacks, the level of data protection is questioned. Organisations must relook into their current security strategies to verify, redefine, enhance and remain fit for purpose.

Current Impact on Businesses: Key Metrics

As AI-powered cyber threats rise, businesses are experiencing tangible impacts. Here are some key metrics to illustrate the current landscape:

The Rise of AI-Powered Cyber Threats

Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance both the deception and efficiency of their data exploitation tactics. By implementing machine learning algorithms, these malicious actors can automate activities like credential theft, password cracking, vishing, smishing, and phishing on an unprecedented scale. AI not only accelerates the identification of vulnerabilities within an organization’s systems but also makes breaches and intrusions more challenging to detect and address promptly

Moreover, the emergence of generative AI has introduced new forms of deception, including highly personalised phishing emails and realistic fake content. These advancements empower cybercriminals to orchestrate multi-layered campaigns that adapt dynamically to security measures, leaving traditional defence mechanisms struggling to keep up. As the tools available to hackers become ever more advanced, the threat landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, demanding a fundamental rethinking of how we approach cyber security.

For instance, AI-driven deepfake technology has been utilized to produce highly realistic voice and video impersonations, which are exploited in social engineering attacks. Additionally, automated tools can swiftly scan extensive networks for vulnerabilities, outpacing human capabilities. Furthermore, AI-powered bots can execute coordinated attacks that dynamically adjust to the defences they encounter in real-time.

Risks on using Traditional Security models to manage AI Threats:

• Inability to detect unusual Threats: Traditional security models often rely on static signatures and predefined rules, making them ineffective against new and previously unseen AI-generated malware or attack techniques.

• Slow Response Times: Manual analysis and intervention are no match for the speed at which AI-powered attacks operate.

• Overwhelmed Resources: The sheer volume and complexity of AI-driven threats can quickly overwhelm traditional security teams and tools, resulting in missed alerts and insufficient coverage across networks and endpoints.

• Weakness in handling Social Engineering: Conventional defences are ill-equipped to recognise sophisticated social engineering tricks, such as deepfake-based phishing or voice impersonation, which can deceive even security-aware personnel.

• Limited Threat Intelligence Integration: Legacy tools often do not integrate with global threat intelligence platforms, missing out on real-time updates about emerging, AI-driven attack vectors.

• Reactive Rather Than Proactive Approaches: Traditional security models tend to respond to attacks after they occur, rather than predicting or preventing threats by analysing behavioural anomalies and unusual patterns.

• Lack of Automation: Without automation, traditional security operations centre (SOC) teams may become bogged down by repetitive tasks, unable to focus on strategizing against the most sophisticated threats.

Limitations of Traditional Security Tools

Traditional security solutions, such as signature-based antivirus software and static firewalls, were designed to detect known threats using predefined rules. While these tools are still essential for baseline protection, they struggle to keep pace with novel, AI-driven attacks that constantly evolve and mutate.

• Signature-based detection: Relies on known malware signatures, but AI attacks create new variants that evade detection.

• Rule-based firewalls: Static rules are easily bypassed by adaptive AI attack strategies.

• Manual monitoring: Human analysts struggle with the speed and scale of AI-driven threats.

In short, the dynamic and unpredictable nature of AI-powered threats exposes the limitations of conventional defences.

The Case for Next-Generation Cyber Security

To keep pace with AI-enabled hackers, organisations must augment their traditional defences with advanced, intelligent security solutions. These include:

• AI-driven threat detection: Security platforms that use machine learning and behavioural analytics to identify anomalies and suspicious activities, even those not seen before.

• Automated response systems: Tools that can respond to threats in real time, containing breaches and neutralising attacks without human intervention.

• Adaptive security frameworks: Solutions that continuously learn and update their defence mechanisms, staying one step ahead of evolving threats.

• Comprehensive threat intelligence: Integrating global threat data and predictive analytics to anticipate and block emerging attack patterns.

By embracing these next-generation tools, organisations can level the playing field against AI-enabled adversaries.While AI is crucial for modern cyber defence, it is not a silver bullet. Skilled security professionals are needed to interpret AI-generated insights, make strategic decisions, and respond to complex incidents.The integration of AI by hackers has significantly transformed the cybersecurity landscape and it’s time for the Organisations to reshape their existing cybersecurity posture to handle AI threats. By continuously evolving our defences, we can strive to stay ahead in this dynamic digital arms race.

About the Author :

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Award winning Technology Leader.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a trusted advisor to Boards, C-suite, regulators, and global enterprises, consistently delivering resilient, compliant, and scalable cyber operating models.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Advisory Member in National Cyber Defence Research Centre (NCDRC)

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member at CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an ambassador at ISAC

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

Disclaimer :

“The views and opinions expressed by Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu in this article are solely her own and do not represent the views of her company or her customers.”

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Next Gen Cyber Security for AI Powered Cyber Threats appeared first on Industry4o.com.

How Design Choices Can Reduce Cybersecurity Risks?

Author4o — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 03:31:18 +0000

How Design Choices Can Reduce Cybersecurity Risks?

Simple products don’t just feel better to use. They are safer to use.
Clear language doesn’t just improve usability. It actively blocks deception.

When UI, UX, and cybersecurity work together, something powerful happens: users make fewer mistakes, attackers lose leverage, and risk quietly drops. This connection is still underestimated, but it’s one of the most effective defenses we have.

The uncomfortable truth about cyber risk

Not every security incident begins with a brilliant hacker. Many start with something far more ordinary: a confusing screen, an unclear action, or an interface that forces people to guess.

When people don’t understand what a system is asking them to do, they improvise. And improvisation is dangerous in digital environments.

A poorly designed interface doesn’t just slow users down, it nudges them toward errors. A vague button, a misleading confirmation message, or a cluttered layout can become the weakest link in an otherwise strong security setup.

Good design quietly prevents problems. Bad design quietly creates them.

That’s why this relationship deserves attention.

“The safest digital products aren’t the most complex. They’re the ones that remove doubt. At AV DESIGNS, we design experiences that feel clear, familiar, and trustworthy, because confidence is the first layer of security.”

Cybersecurity has moved beyond the IT department

For years, organizations treated security as a backend concern. Firewalls, encryption, access controls, important, but invisible. Design lived elsewhere. UX was about ease. UI was about appearance.

That separation no longer works.

Today, a confusing interface can cause more damage than a technical vulnerability. Users don’t think in silos. They respond to what they see, what feels familiar, and what looks trustworthy on screen.

If an action isn’t clearly explained, users guess.
If a warning looks generic, they dismiss it.
If a security message feels abrupt or unclear, they ignore it.

Modern cybersecurity includes visual clarity, behavioral guidance, and communication that reduces hesitation, not just infrastructure.

Because the largest source of cyber incidents isn’t technology. It’s human error. And design has enormous influence over human behavior.

Why people make mistakes online?

People don’t analyze interfaces the way designers or security professionals do. They skim. They rely on patterns. They assume things work the way they worked last time.

No one carefully reads every permission request. No one double-checks URLs under pressure. No one studies warning messages when they’re trying to finish a task quickly.

Attackers understand this perfectly.

They don’t rely on technical brilliance alone. They rely on familiarity. If something looks close enough to what users expect, the brain fills in the gaps.

This is where inconsistent or messy design becomes a real liability.

When your legitimate screens lack consistency, different layouts, shifting styles, unclear messaging, it becomes easier for fake screens to blend in. If your real interface is already confusing, users have no reliable mental model to compare against.

Consistency isn’t just a brand choice. It’s a security signal.

When design inconsistency enables phishing?

Picture this.

A customer receives a genuine login alert from your platform. The email layout doesn’t quite match the website. The color palette is slightly different. The tone feels unfamiliar.

The next day, they receive a phishing email. It looks similar enough, because your real communication didn’t have a strong, recognizable pattern to begin with.

Now the user hesitates. Or worse, they don’t.

Nothing failed technically. But trust collapsed.

Strong, predictable design makes fake messages stand out. Weak identity makes imitation effortless.

Design protects when it’s consistent, intentional, and recognizable. It becomes a vulnerability when it’s loose and undefined.

Simplicity is an underrated security control

Every additional option increases cognitive load.
Every extra step increases fatigue.
Every unnecessary element increases the chance of error.

When interfaces become dense, users rush. When users rush, they stop evaluating risk.

Think about common security flows like password resets or account recovery. A clear, short, well-guided flow encourages safe behavior. A long, confusing one encourages shortcuts, password reuse, skipped steps, careless clicks.

Design doesn’t just support behavior. It shapes it.

Simplicity isn’t about minimal aesthetics. It’s about reducing the number of ways things can go wrong.

Labels can either protect users, or trap them

Language matters more than most teams realize.

A button that says “Continue” asks the user to trust blindly. Continue to what? A payment? A deletion? A verification step?

Clear labels remove ambiguity. They tell users exactly what will happen next, which removes the attacker’s advantage.

When actions are explicitly named, manipulation becomes harder. Deception thrives in vagueness. Clarity shuts it down.

Good labels guide users forward. Bad labels force them to guess.

Designing with phishing in mind

Phishing works by exploiting uncertainty. Attackers depend on users being unable to quickly tell what’s real.

Clean, consistent UI makes that difficult.

When real interfaces follow strict visual and behavioral rules, colors, typography, spacing, tone, users develop intuition. Anything that breaks the pattern feels wrong.

Consistency trains users what to trust. Inconsistency trains them to ignore warning signs.

Well-designed products don’t need loud alerts to be safe. They rely on familiarity, predictability, and subtle cues that the brain recognizes instantly.

UX decisions that quietly strengthen security

Some of the most effective security reinforcements don’t look like security at all:

Real-time feedback that catches errors early
Step-by-step flows that remove guesswork
Safe defaults that protect users without effort
Visual cues that signal legitimacy
Familiar interaction patterns that reduce hesitation

When experiences feel smooth, users behave more carefully. When experiences feel chaotic, users stop paying attention.

Ease and safety are not opposites. They reinforce each other.

How does poor UX lead to security fatigue?

Constant alerts, unclear warnings, and complicated processes wear people down. Over time, users stop reading. They approve requests automatically. They click through messages just to get them out of the way.

This isn’t user negligence. It’s fatigue caused by design.

People don’t dislike security. They dislike confusing, interruptive, badly explained security.

Thoughtful design reduces friction without removing protection. It keeps users engaged instead of exhausted.

Microcopy: the smallest, strongest defender

A few words can completely change how a user reacts.

Clear, human language builds confidence. Confusing language creates hesitation or blind trust, both dangerous.

Microcopy explains intent. It tells users why something is happening, not just what to click. That understanding is often enough to prevent a mistake.

Words guide behavior. Behavior determines risk.

Subtle design choices that lower risk

Many protective design decisions are quiet:

Visual password strength indicators
Confirmation summaries before critical actions
Plain-language warnings instead of technical jargon
Tooltips that explain data usage
Strongly branded verification screens
Email designs that are hard to imitate
Controlled color usage so anomalies stand out
Adequate spacing to prevent accidental clicks

Good design doesn’t shout. It is reassuring.

Why do security teams need designers at the table?

Security professionals understand threats. Designers understand behavior. UX teams understand friction.

When these perspectives stay separate, gaps appear. When they work together, those gaps close.

Modern security isn’t just engineered. It’s designed.

Designing safer digital experiences by default

Organizations that take this seriously build safety into their systems:

Strong, consistent brand identity
Clear, intuitive user flows
Predictable layouts
Explicit labels
Visual guidance instead of guesswork
Human language in security messages
Testing for confusion, not just beauty
Reduced clutter
Elevated visual treatment for critical actions
Trust treated as a core design principle

Security becomes part of the experience, not an afterthought.

Where is this all heading?

As AI-powered scams, deepfake interfaces, and hyper-realistic phishing increase, technical defenses alone won’t be enough.

Clarity will matter more than complexity.
Recognition more than warnings.
Design more than detection.

Design will become the first line of defense.

The real takeaway

Many cyber risks don’t begin with malicious code. They begin with uncertainty. And uncertainty often begins with design.

Clear interfaces reduce mistakes. Clear language limits deception. Consistent patterns build trust. Thoughtful UX guides safer behavior.

Bad design isn’t just inconvenient. It’s risky.

If you want safer users, design with clarity.
If you want fewer incidents, reduce complexity.
If you want stronger cybersecurity, start with UI and UX.

Because when people feel confident, they act carefully.
And that’s the quiet power of good design.

About the Author:

Mr. Aswin Vijayan
Brand Consultant – AV DESIGNS

Aswin Vijayan is a creative strategist and founder of AV DESIGNS, with 15+ years of experience in design, UX, SEO, and digital marketing. His work focuses on building user-centric digital experiences that blend creativity, clarity, and performance.

His journey began in 2009, driven by a deep curiosity for visual storytelling and digital creativity. Starting with logos, icons, and photo manipulation, Aswin quickly expanded into web design, HTML development, and freelance projects working closely with early-stage businesses to shape their digital identities from the ground up.

By 2014, his growing expertise led to the launch of his first official website, marking a shift from individual projects to a more structured creative practice. Soon after, working within a company environment gave him real-world exposure to business operations, client expectations, and the strategic role design plays in growth and decision-making.

Over the years, Aswin’s focus evolved beyond aesthetics. Through continuous self-learning and experimentation, he developed strong expertise in branding, digital marketing, SEO, UX design, and performance-driven design systems, allowing him to connect creativity with measurable outcomes.

Today, Aswin leads AV DESIGNS, a full-service creative and digital agency supported by a global team of designers, developers, and marketers. His work centers on building clear, intuitive, and scalable digital experiences where design is not just visual, but strategic, functional, and impactful.

Aswin Vijayan can be contacted at:

LinkedIn | X | Website | E-mail | Technical Influencer

AV DESIGNS can be contacted at:

LinkedIn | X | Instagram | FaceBook | Website

The post How Design Choices Can Reduce Cybersecurity Risks? appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Emerging Cyber Security Trends in 2026

Author4o — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:40:30 +0000

“Emerging Cyber Security Trends in 2026 : AI, Identity, and the New Attack Frontier”

As we are nearing 2026, the cyber security landscape is undergoing rapid evolution, fuelled by technological advancements, emerging AI transformation and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Let’s dive deep into the most notable emerging trends in cyber security for 2026, emphasizing the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI), the crucial importance of identity management, and the expansion of the attack surface into previously unexplored areas.

Technological innovation is reshaping the fabric of cyber security. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, and the proliferation of connected devices are revolutionising both defensive and offensive capabilities. While these advances offer remarkable opportunities for automation, threat detection, and rapid response, they also introduce new vulnerabilities and attack vectors. The pace of change demands that cyber security teams remain agile, continually updating their skills and tools to keep pace with the latest developments.

The future of cyber security extends beyond traditional boundaries. Organisations must proactively address emerging risks such as quantum threats, deepfake technologies, and the exploitation of artificial intelligence. Additionally, the regulatory landscape is evolving, with stricter data privacy laws and compliance requirements. Proactive risk management, regular security assessments, and investment in employee training will be essential to staying ahead of the curve and building organisational resilience.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Cyber Security

Artificial intelligence has emerged as a double-edged sword in the realm of cyber security and that has been discussed frequently across all round tables. On one side, AI-powered tools are significantly enhancing the capabilities of defenders, enabling them to detect, analyse, and respond to threats with uncommon speed and precision. Machine learning models can sift through massive datasets to identify anomalies, automate incident responses, and even predict future attacks based on historical data. Contrarywise, cybercriminals are exploiting AI to automate their attacks, increase the identity, create highly convincing phishing campaigns, and evade traditional security measures.

Looking ahead to 2026, we anticipate a notable increase in the deployment of AI-driven security solutions, including autonomous threat hunting, intelligent deception technologies, and adaptive authentication systems. However, this advancement also necessitates heightened vigilance against AI-generated threats, such as deepfake-based social engineering and AI-assisted malware. As AI continues to evolve, both defenders and attackers will need to adapt their strategies to navigate this rapidly changing landscape.

Identity as the New Perimeter

In the era of cloud computing and distributed workforces, the concept of a fixed network perimeter has lost its significance. Instead, identity around users, devices, and service accounts has emerged as the central pillar of enterprise security and adapting to zero trust. Malicious actors increasingly target credentials and identity systems, recognising that breaching identity controls can grant access to a wide array of resources to influence. As a result, robust identity protection is now vital, with digital identity serving as the gateway to critical information, applications, and infrastructure, the need for investing time and effort on this area has become the emerging demand in this new threat landscape.

Some of the places to invest includes –

Biometric authentication, Face identity verification, behavioural analytics, and adaptive access controls will become more prevalent, aiming to minimise the risk of credential theft and account compromise. The focus will shift from defending networks to safeguarding digital identities, with increased investment in identity threat detection and response (ITDR) solutions.

By embracing these measures, cybersecurity professionals and IT leaders can position their organisations to meet the evolving challenges of a perimeter less digital world, safeguarding assets and ensuring operational resilience well into 2026 and beyond.

The Expanding Attack Surface: New Frontiers

The digital landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by the propagation of Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the integration of operational technology (OT), and the emergence of smart infrastructure. As organisations accelerate their adoption of these technologies, the digital attack surface is increasing with potential vulnerabilities that expands dramatically.

For cybersecurity professionals and IT leaders, this evolution presents both unprecedented opportunities and urgent challenges, as adversaries exploit new vectors to target critical systems and infrastructure. Moreover, the convergence of cyber and physical security means that attacks may have substantial, real-world impacts. For example, ransomware targeting bank systems, healthcare platform, and autonomous vehicles is raising severe consequences for public safety and trust.

Some of the key challenges that’s raising in recent past –

Key Recommendations for Organisations

Invest in AI-driven security tools: Leverage the power of AI to automate threat detection, response, and predictive analytics, while staying informed about adversarial AI techniques.

Prioritise Secure-by-Design Principles: Integrate security into the development and deployment of IoT and OT devices, ensuring robust authentication, encryption, and update mechanisms.

Strengthen identity management: Adopt zero trust principles, implement multi-factor authentication, and monitor for identity-based threats using advanced analytics.

Secure the expanding attack surface: Conduct regular risk assessments of IoT, OT, and supply chain environments, and collaborate with partners to address shared vulnerabilities.

Enhance Supply Chain Security: Conduct rigorous vetting of suppliers, enforce contractual security standards, and monitor third-party risks continuously.

Monitor regulatory developments: Stay abreast of evolving data protection and cyber security regulations to ensure compliance and best practice adoption.

Foster a culture of cyber resilience: Provide ongoing security awareness training, develop incident response plans, and encourage collaboration across business units.

Implement Zero Trust Architecture: Assume that no device or user is inherently trustworthy, and continuously verify access at every stage.

Develop Incident Response Plans: Establish comprehensive procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber-physical attacks, with an emphasis on cross-functional collaboration.

Simulated Exercises: Conduct drills and simulations to test awareness and readiness for regulatory-driven scenarios, such as data breach notification.

Training and Awareness: Run focused campaigns on emerging threats (e.g., phishing, ransomware) and regulatory updates, using posters, emails, and intranet resources.

The expanding digital attack surface presents a difficult challenge for cybersecurity professionals and IT leaders. The rapid adoption of AI, IoT, OT, and smart infrastructure, coupled with emerging technologies like quantum computing and 5G, demands a proactive and holistic approach to risk management. By strengthening security across supply chains, critical infrastructure, and cyber-physical systems, organisations can safeguard their operations and mitigate the real-world impacts of digital attacks. The urgency to act has never been greater; those who anticipate and address these risks will be best positioned to thrive in the hyper-connected world of 2026 and beyond.

Conclusion

The year 2026 promises to be the moment of evolution in cyber security space trying to adapt and managing emerging risks and growing in digital transformation. The digital environment in which organisations operate is undergoing transformative shifts, driven by the convergence of advanced technologies and increasingly resourceful adversaries. To succeed in this dynamic landscape, organisations must adopt forward-thinking strategies that address the challenges of today while anticipating the risks of tomorrow.

By embracing artificial intelligence responsibly, reinforcing identity management, and proactively confronting new and emerging risks, organisations can enhance their resilience and safeguard their digital future. The journey ahead demands vigilance, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

About the Author :

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Award winning Technology Leader.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a trusted advisor to Boards, C-suite, regulators, and global enterprises, consistently delivering resilient, compliant, and scalable cyber operating models.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Advisory Member in National Cyber Defence Research Centre (NCDRC)

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member at CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an ambassador at ISAC

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

Disclaimer :

“The views and opinions expressed by Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu in this article are solely her own and do not represent the views of her company or her customers.”

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Emerging Cyber Security Trends in 2026 appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Ghost Pairing Cyber Attack by Hijacking WhatsApp

Author4o — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 03:47:20 +0000

Ghost Pairing Attack : How Cybercriminals Hijack
WhatsApp Using Your Phone Number and How ETSPL Recommends You to Prevent It

At ETSPL, we regularly analyze emerging cyber-attack patterns impacting individuals and businesses. One of the most concerning threats gaining traction is the GhostPairing Attack—a highly effective social-engineering technique that bypasses traditional security assumptions.

Despite strong end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp accounts can still be fully compromised. The reason is simple: attackers exploit user trust, not cryptography.

What Is the GhostPairing Attack?

GhostPairing is not a flaw in WhatsApp encryption. It is an abuse of WhatsApp’s legitimate “Linked Devices” feature, combined with psychological manipulation.

The attacker convinces a victim to unknowingly authorize an external device, creating a silent “ghost” session that mirrors chats in real time.

• No malware.

• No SIM swapping.

• No password theft.

• Just deception.

How the GhostPairing Attack Works (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Social Engineering Entry Point

Victims receive a message—often from a compromised contact—such as:

• “Is this your photo?”

• “Your WhatsApp account needs verification”

• “Policy violation detected on your account”

The message contains a malicious link designed to look legitimate.

Step 2: Fake Whats App Verification Page

Clicking the link opens a convincing replica of a Whats App or Meta verification page requesting:

• Mobile number entry

• Immediate “verification” to continue

This page is fully controlled by the attacker.

Step 3: Abuse of WhatsApp Linked Devices

In the background:

• The attacker initiates an official WhatsApp device-pairing request

• WhatsApp generates a real pairing code

• The fake website displays the same code to the victim

The victim is instructed:

“Open WhatsApp → Linked Devices → Enter code to verify”

Step 4: Victim Unknowingly Grants Access

By entering the code, the victim:

• Links the attacker’s device

• Grants access to chats, media, and contacts

• Receives no forced logout or immediate warning

The takeover remains largely invisible.

Step 5: Persistent Ghost Surveillance

Once linked, the attacker can:

• Monitor live conversations

• Send messages as the victim

• Harvest sensitive or business data

• Propagate the attack to other contacts

Access remains active until manually removed.

ETSPL Security Advisory: How to Defend Against GhostPairing

Immediate Actions (Critical)

1. Review Linked Devices

◌ WhatsApp → Settings → Linked Devices

◌ Remove any unfamiliar session immediately

2. Enable Two-Step Verification

◌ Settings → Account → Two-Step Verification

◌ Use a strong PIN and recovery email

3. Log Out of All Devices

◌ Force logout from every active session

Behavioral Prevention (Most Important)

• Never click “photo”, “verification”, or “warning” links sent via WhatsApp

• Never enter WhatsApp pairing or verification codes on external websites

• WhatsApp does not request account verification through links or pop-ups

Key Takeaway from ETSPL

Modern cyberattacks increasingly target human behavior, not technical vulnerabilities. GhostPairing proves that even secure platforms can be compromised if users are manipulated.

Security awareness, verification discipline, and regular account audits are now as important as encryption itself.

ETSPL continues to monitor evolving threats and advises organizations to include social-engineering defense as a core part of their cybersecurity strategy.

If you found this advisory useful, share it within your network—prevention begins with awareness.

About the author :

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar
MD & CEO,
EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD (ETSPL)

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar is a seasoned IT professional with over 21 years of diverse experience in the technology industry. Throughout his career, Vinod has worked with a wide range of sectors, from small businesses to multinational corporations, gaining invaluable insights into various technological verticals.

In 2017, leveraging his extensive expertise and recognizing the growing importance of cybersecurity for businesses, Vinod took a bold step and established his own company. Focused on serving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), his company aimed to provide comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to protect these businesses from emerging
threats in the digital landscape. Vinod‘s commitment to safeguarding the digital assets of SMEs earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor in the cybersecurity domain.

Building on his success and driven by a passion for addressing complex challenges in the digital realm, Vinod expanded his entrepreneurial ventures further. In 2017, he founded ETSPL and in 2022 he founded another company BEPPL (Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd) dedicated to providing a comprehensive suite of services encompassing cybersecurity, legal advisory, copyrights, intellectual property rights (IPR), online dispute resolutions, and more. This innovative venture positioned Vinod as a pioneer in offering integrated solutions that bridge the gap between technology and legal compliance.

Vinod‘s visionary leadership and multidisciplinary approach have positioned his companies as leaders in the cybersecurity and legal services sectors in India. His ability to anticipate emerging trends, coupled with a deep understanding of both technology and legal frameworks, has enabled him to offer holistic solutions tailored to the evolving needs of his clients.

With a track record of success and a commitment to excellence, Vinod Gokakakar continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of cybersecurity and legal services, empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of the digital age with confidence and resilience.

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinodgokakakar/details/certifications/

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar is Accorded with the following Honors & Awards :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinodgokakakar/details/honors/

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar can be contacted at :

LinkedIn | Twitter | E-mail

Are you an IT Professional? Visit FreePikTool website.

About EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD:

We are expertise in the Cyber Security & IT services. We work on simple principle Discussion, Initiatives, Testing & Execution.

Join hands with us to accelerate your business success!

EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD can be contacted at:

FaceBook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Website | E-mail

About CONSULT INNSERVICES :

We conduct training sessions for employees, reporting, resolving client issues, software testing, troubleshooting issues and developing innovative solutions that will drive growth.

CONSULT INNSERVICES can be contact at:

About Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd

At BEPPL (Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd), Our cyber security services encompass a wide range of solutions, including threat intelligence, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, incident response, and security awareness training.

Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd can be contacted at :

LinkedIn | Website | E-mail

Also read Mr. Vinod Gokakakar’s earlier article :

The post Ghost Pairing Cyber Attack by Hijacking WhatsApp appeared first on Industry4o.com.

SpamGPT – AI-powered Attack Tool

Author4o — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:23:31 +0000

SpamGPT – AI-powered Attack Tool Used By Hackers For Massive Phishing Attack

SpamGPT is a new AI-powered attack tool that enables hackers to conduct massive, highly effective phishing campaigns by integrating advanced artificial intelligence with automation usually seen in legitimate email marketing platforms.

What is SpamGPT?

SpamGPT is a “spam-as-a-service” toolkit marketed on the dark web, designed to automate nearly every aspect of phishing operations. It streamlines the creation, management, delivery, and optimization of phishing emails, making advanced attacks accessible even to less skilled cybercriminals.

Key Features

Automated Email Generation :

Uses AI to draft realistic, context-sensitive phishing emails with minimal errors, greatly increasing their believability.

Targeted Campaigns:

Collects and analyzes data for precise segmentation, enabling highly tailored attacks instead of indiscriminate bulk emails.

High Volume Delivery:

Mimics marketing infrastructure to send millions of emails quickly and evade standard spam filters.

Campaign Management:

Tracks engagement (open rates, clicks, bounces) and dynamically adapts strategies based on real-time analytics, just like legitimate marketing CRMs.

Inbox Evasion:

Uses AI to tweak content and delivery, bypassing filters and employing spoofing techniques to impersonate domains or brands.

How Hackers Use SpamGPT :

The tool allows attackers to set up multithreaded spam runs across dozens of SMTP servers, rotate sender identities, and manage multiple IMAP accounts for monitoring inbox placement.

SpamGPT offers “SMTP cracking mastery” tutorials to help users find or create SMTP servers for bulk mailing and verify that emails land in primary inboxes, not spam folders. Attackers can launch, monitor, and adjust campaigns with a user-friendly dashboard, further lowering the barrier to entry.

Impact on Phishing Threats:

Lowered Entry Barrier:

The tool simplifies sophisticated attacks, allowing even unskilled operators to run large-scale campaigns using AI.

Increased Scale and Realism:

Advanced automation multiplies attack volume and refines messaging to evade detection.

Financial & Reputation Damage:

More convincing phishing leads to higher breach rates, resulting in increased data theft and financial losses.

Defending Against SpamGPT

Experts recommend:

Enforcing strict email authentication measures like DMARC, SPF, and DKIM to protect against spoofing.

Deploying AI-powered email security solutions to detect and block sophisticated, AI-generated phishing messages.

Organizations need proactive threat intelligence and advanced filter tuning to counteract the automation and evasion tactics introduced by SpamGPT.

For IT security teams, understanding the capabilities and techniques of SpamGPT is now essential when crafting modern defences against AI-driven phishing threats.

About the author :

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar
MD & CEO,
EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD (ETSPL)

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinodgokakakar/details/certifications/

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar is Accorded with the following Honors & Awards :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinodgokakakar/details/honors/

Dr. Vinod Gokakakar can be contacted at :

LinkedIn | Twitter | E-mail

Are you an IT Professional? Visit FreePikTool website.

About EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD:

We are expertise in the Cyber Security & IT services. We work on simple principle Discussion, Initiatives, Testing & Execution.

Join hands with us to accelerate your business success!

EBC TECH SERV PVT LTD can be contacted at:

FaceBook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Website | E-mail

About CONSULT INNSERVICES :

We conduct training sessions for employees, reporting, resolving client issues, software testing, troubleshooting issues and developing innovative solutions that will drive growth.

CONSULT INNSERVICES can be contact at:

About Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd

Business Entente Powers Pvt Ltd can be contacted at :

LinkedIn | Website | E-mail

Also read Mr. Vinod Gokakakar’s earlier article :

The post SpamGPT – AI-powered Attack Tool appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Cyber Security in the Banking Industry

Author4o — Tue, 20 May 2025 00:03:10 +0000

Cyber Security in the Banking Industry : A Critical play

What is Cyber Security in essence?

Cyber security in the banking industry refers to the methods, tools, and technologies used to defend financial organizations, their systems, and clients against online attacks. Among these dangers are ransomware, malware, phishing scams, identity theft, and more. Banks seek to preserve operational health, guard sensitive data, and stop financial losses by putting strong security frameworks in place.

A paradigm shifts in a more cohesive approach that reflects a better understanding and management of cyber threats is anticipated by the cyber security industry. This change pertains to the most recent technological revolution and adoption, as well as related liability, maturity, integration, regulatory, quantification, communication, and behavioural changes. Because of its handling of high-value transactions, sensitive personal data, and cross-border and global reach, the industry is a prime target for cybercriminals, making cybersecurity an essential. Also, digital transformation in banking predictably unleashes plethora of security loops holes. Online banking, mobile apps, APIs, cloud infrastructure, and fintech partnerships have transformed the banking arena, simultaneously expanding the attack surface.

Show me the money!

The sense of urgency is apparent in the world market of cybersecurity. It contributed to USD 172.24 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to raise to USD 562.72 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 14.3%.

Cybercriminals reap enormous sums from banking-related fraud—measured broadly as the losses suffered by banks, businesses, and consumers. Some numbers to corroborate:

• Global scam & Bank fraud losses: In 2023, worldwide losses from scams and bank-fraud schemes totaled USD 485.6 billion. This figure encompasses everything from authorized-push-payment (APP) fraud and business-email compromise to sophisticated social-engineering attacks.

• U.S. consumer fraud: U.S. consumers reported losses exceeding USD 10 billion to fraud in 2023—the first time that threshold was crossed—according to the Federal Trade Commission

• Internet crime complaints (IC3): The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) recorded over 859,000 complaints in 2024, with USD 16 billion in reported losses—a 33% jump from 2023

• Money laundering context: Beyond direct fraud, an estimated USD 800 billion is laundered globally each year—much of it proceeds from various financial-crime schemes, including banking fraud

Lucrative High-Value Targets where banks and their customers hold large sums and sensitive data, low Risk/High Reward where automated tools (bots, credential-stuffing kits), AI-driven phishing, and “money-mule” schemes let attackers scale rapidly. And global reach where Cross-border transactions and diverse regulatory environments make detection and recovery difficult.

Forecast cybersecurity market revenue worldwide in 2024, by segment (in billion U.S. dollars) (Source: Statista’25)

The flip side of digital transformation

The convenience of digital banking comes with a significant increase in vulnerabilities and security loopholes that cybercriminals are quick to exploit. While the banking sector has embraced digital transformation through online platforms, mobile apps, APIs, cloud infrastructure, and fintech partnerships, this progress has also expanded the attack surface.

The canvas of threat landscape includes some common cyber threats:

Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks
Malware and Ransomware
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
Insider Threats
Credential Stuffing and Brute Force Attacks
Third-Party and Supply Chain Risks

Among these, phishing remains one of the most significant threats. The financial sector is a top target for phishing campaigns that trick employees or customers into revealing sensitive data or downloading malicious software. With the advent of AI-generated phishing content, detection has become more difficult than ever.

Why should Cybersecurity matter?

In the ear of mammoth digital transformation, the importance of cybersecurity in the financial sector cannot be overstated for the following reasons:

• Protects ‘your’ sensitive data: Banks manage vast amounts of customer data—personal details, account numbers, and transaction records. Cybersecurity ensures this data stays protected from unauthorized access.

• Prevents financial loss: Breaches and unauthorized transactions can cost banks and customers millions.

• Regulatory compliance: Institutions must comply with regulations and local banking laws. Compliance avoids penalties and legal action.

• Ensures continuity of service: Attacks like DDoS can disrupt online services. Security systems keep services available and reliable.

• Allows for threat detection & response: Real-time monitoring and threat response capabilities help limit damage during incidents.

• Helps build customer trust: Trust leads to loyalty—lose it, and you risk losing business. Would you trust a bank that compromises your data and puts your money at risk?

The Legal and Regulatory Landscape

According to a Senior Cyber Security consultant from Deloitte: “The biggest deterrent for non-compliance is the financial penalty. But the long-term benefits of a disciplined approach to compliance far outweigh the cost.”

Banks have a legal obligation to safeguard customer information and prevent unauthorized access. Various global and national frameworks guide their cybersecurity efforts:

Global Standards & Frameworks:

• ISO/IEC 27001 provides a risk-based approach to managing sensitive company information.

• NIST Cybersecurity Framework, offers a flexible framework for identifying, protecting against, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber threats.

• PCI DSS- PCI Security Standards Council (founded by Visa, MasterCard, etc.)

• SWIFT Customer Security Programme (CSP) enhances cybersecurity across global financial messaging systems.

• DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) which focuses on IT risk management, incident reporting, and third-party risk in the financial sector.

Country-Specific Regulations:

• GDPR (EU)

• Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (USA) requires financial institutions to explain data-sharing practices and safeguard sensitive data.

• FFIEC Guidelines (USA) which help banks assess cybersecurity risk and maturity.

• RBI Guidelines (India) which requires bank to have Cybersecurity Operation Centre (C-SOC)

To stay ahead of threats, banks are adopting advanced technologies:

• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Used for fraud detection, anomaly detection, and threat intelligence.

• Blockchain & Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT): Offers tamper-proof, secure transaction records.

• Cloud security: Focuses on secure configurations, compliance, and data sovereignty.

• Zero Trust Architecture: Implements a “never trust, always verify” model with micro-segmentation and least-privilege access.

• Cyber Resilience & Business Continuity: Includes backups, insurance, red team/blue team exercises, and crisis communication planning.

Banks and financial institutions are obliged to safeguard sensitive data, ensure compliance. Despite the urgency, banks face several roadblocks, some of the challenges in implementing Cybersecurity are:

• Legacy IT systems that are difficult to secure

• Budget limitations with banks

• A shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, cost of hiring specialized skills for the same

• Complex and evolving regulatory environments, hard to come up with

• Balancing customer convenience with strong security controls

According to IBM’s IBV study- research with 1,000 executives across 21 industries and 18 countries (including 140 in banking) reveals a stark reality: banks juggle an average of 114 different security solutions from 42 vendors. This fragmented approach not only frustrates security professionals but also hinders overall effectiveness.

What Are Banks Doing Today?

To combat threats proactively, modern banks are deploying:

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enhances security with layers of verification.
Encryption: Protects data in transit and at rest.
Security Audits: Regular reviews to detect and fix vulnerabilities.
AI-Powered Fraud Detection: Identifies abnormal behaviour in real time.
Secure Payment Gateways: Ensures secure online transactions.
Employee Cyber Awareness Training: Reduces human error and insider threats.

As cybersecurity continues to be deeply integrated into every aspect of modern banking operations, embedding cybersecurity into every facet of operations, adopting forward-looking strategies, and fostering a culture of vigilance, financial institutions can safeguard their operations, build customer trust and help ensure a resilient financial ecosystem for the future.

While the cyber security file evolves, here are some emerging trends to watch:

• Quantum-Resistant Cryptography: Encryption standards for the era of quantum computing to prevent future vulnerabilities.

• Behavioural Biometrics: Behaviour patterns such as typing speed, mouse movements for continuous authentication.

• RegTech (Regulatory Technology): Leveraging technology to streamline and improve compliance with evolving regulations.

• Cybersecurity-as-a-Service (CSaaS): Outsourcing cybersecurity needs to specialized providers for scalable, expert-led protection. It is a subscription-based model where businesses outsource some or all of their cybersecurity operations to third-party providers. Instead of building and maintaining in-house security infrastructure, organizations can access expert-managed services on demand, often through the cloud. The scalability and flexibility of CSaaS make it an attractive option, a mid-sized regional bank might use CSaaS for managed SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), endpoint detection and response (EDR), regulatory reporting and audits and disaster recovery and business continuity.

According to an independent senior Cyber Security consultant has concerns over data handling- “Customized GenAI Security framework with open ends and no security to protect a bank’s data that is being used is a key concern”.

A continuous strategic imperative

Cybersecurity isn’t an ancillary or support function but a strategic imperative for modern banking. The convergence of technology, compliance, and customer trust demands continuous investment in people, processes, and innovation. It calls for continuous investment in people, processes, and technology is vital to stay ahead of threats.

As banks integrate cybersecurity into every layer of operation and embrace emerging technologies, they move closer to building a future-ready, resilient financial ecosystem. Thus, the future of cybersecurity in banking is poised for transformative advancements that can ensure a resilient financial ecosystem for the future.

IBM as a leader in Cybersecurity

IBM Cybersecurity Services is a trusted partner, delivering advisory, integration and managed security services, to offensive and defensive capabilities, we combine a global team of experts with proprietary and partner technology to co-create tailored security programs to provide vulnerability management and transform security into a business enabler.

Cybersecurity Consulting Services | IBM

IBM NCEE News Room – Case Studies

Security and fraud risks in banking and financial markets | IBM

About the Author:

Ms. Sudha Rawat Talwar is a Senior Consulting professional with a background in marketing and business development.

Ms. Sudha Rawat Talwar is keen on areas such as ESG and hyper personalization in banking and payments. She is based out of Bangalore.

Ms. Sudha Rawat Talwar can be contacted at:

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Is there a Massive Surge In Ransomware Attacks ?

Author4o — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:35:45 +0000

Increase of Ransomware Attacks in 2025

Ransomware attacks have become much more common with technology growing across the industries, it is not only complex and challenging, but they are more sophisticated and costly in the past and in coming years. Ransomware attacks continued to trend upwards in 2025, rising by 11% compared to 2024, underlining the resilience of Enterprise security culture.

Ransomware attacks are up in recent times, with cyber criminals succeeding in encrypting the data or locking the data in over half of the attacks arising in the industries across the globe. The time taken to recover, the cost involved during the crimes and the type of ransomware attacks are changing with time. Some of the key patterns that’s shooking the industries across are:

✦ Devastating nature of cyber wars

✦ Emerging Technology trends

✦ Evolving strategies and patterns used by ransomware actors

✦ Increased targeting of edge devices

The BFSI industry has been the favorite target for many of the malicious cyber criminals, leading to cybersecurity and data protection becoming a major investment for many financial organizations. A research report from the New York Federal Reserve notes that financial firms experience 300 times more cyber-attacks than firms in other industries in the recent past. Cyber criminals target financial firms for major ransoms. Ransomware is predominantly effective in the banking industry as the business holds a large amount of customer data and cannot bear any downtime as it will show a huge impact to business. These ransomware attacks are designed to cripple people or businesses by locking their applications / encrypting the data / making the systems unusable until they pay a “ransom.”

Ransomware has risen vividly during the pandemic across various industries; however, the banking/finance industry has been hit hard for imposed to work in an open environment during the covid. The financial services industry is a very attractive target to cyber criminals because of the valuable customer information they possess and manage. The threat of leaking the data on the dark web, and the resulting reputational damage, compels many financial services organizations to comply with ransom demands without a choice to withhold their reputation and recover critical data without an impact to business.

Some of the major challenges faced by the organizations during ransomware attacks are:

✦ Businesses are having a huge impact on business, including financial loss, data loss, and reputational damage

✦ Significant downtime, resulting in lost revenue

✦ Loss of critical Data

✦ Security of remote work and hybrid workforces are increasing in the current threat landscape

✦ Significant increase in phishing and malware attacks which is a common trait used for demanding ransom by locking or encrypting the data.

✦ Complex regulatory requirements making it challenging for the organizations to adhere to Privacy Acts/standards/regulations

Cost of Ransomware Attacks :

It’s getting harder for organizations, especially in the financial firms, to secure the data. This has driven almost all financial organizations to make changes to their existing cyber defenses to improve their data protection. Ransomware attacks are not only becoming more pervasive, but more sophisticated. They Cyber criminals have been creating various threats that even the most secured banks with robust security controls are compelled to stop. Ransomware remained the standout threat for the past 2 years and expected to cross billions of losses by 2023, however, financial firms have given key priority to invest in data security to ensure data protection and safeguard from the current threat landscape.

As a matter of high or very high priority, enhanced protection measures to prevent ransomware attacks from invading backup data has become the key focus area. Having robust backup mechanisms and back up strategies has always been the tactical solution for quickly recovering data and not paying the ransom. But recent attacks have shown that attackers have developed very creative approaches to target the systems/applications in a very effective manner to target BFSI sector among others. Continuous monitoring, patching, enabling the right set of security controls and upgrading the systems on an ongoing basis is the key.

Some of the best practices recommended to prevent ransomware attacks are:

✦ Increase employees training frequency and establish role-based awareness sessions

✦ Strengthening password management controls and change management policy.

✦ Regular patch updates and upgrading systems/applications

✦ Optimal Storage Utilization

✦ Quick data recovery and automated data backup.

✦ Ensuring your systems, laptops, applications, and servers are secure with the right firewalls and virus protection programs

✦ Leverage MDR services and full-suite cybersecurity posture to increase data protection and safeguard the environment

✦ 24×7 continuous monitoring

✦ Protecting your business with cyber liability insurance

Increasing complexity in IT space continues to lead to ransomware attacks and compromises highlighting the need for more holistic approaches to data-protection. The current cybersecurity threat landscape requires a multi-layered solution that has a holistic approach including employees, contract employees, relevant stakeholders, and 3^rd parties to eradicate the evolving cyber threats rising from both internal/external network.

Disclaimer : The views and opinions expressed by Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu in this article are solely her own and do not represent the views of her company or her customers.

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Award winning Technology Leader.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an experienced Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Leader with overall 21 years of experience focused on Risk Advisory, Data Protection and Business Resilience.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu has demonstrated expertise in identifying and mitigating risks across ISO, NIST, SOC, CRS, GRC, RegTech and in emerging technologies with diverse experience across corporate and Strategic Partners.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu possess a solid balance of domain knowledge & smart business acumen ensuring business requirements and organizational goals are met.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member at CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an ambassador at ISAC

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Is there a Massive Surge In Ransomware Attacks ? appeared first on Industry4o.com.

DUA Bill

Author4o — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 06:31:42 +0000

DUA (Data Use & Access) Bill Expectations and its Importance in UK

The UK DUA (Data Use & Access) Bill was introduced in the UK House on 24th November 2024 to streamline the UK’s approach to governing and managing data regulation more effectively, with various amendments into the existing UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act (2018) for modernising the existing regulation aligning to EU GDPR and emerging technology trends. The DUA Bill significantly introduced to bring an impact on UK data protection to ease the regulatory burden on small and medium enterprises, simplify legitimate interests, data transfers, cookies management, data subject access requests (DSARs), and align with EU data initiatives. However, the decision on the bill amendment is expected in 2025 and it would be a critical evolution in UK’s data protection regime.

The King’s Speech during the meeting in November 2024 announced a comprehensive agenda on strengthening and enhancing the data protection of the individuals leading up to the DUA Bill. This proposed law advances a unique approach to data practices by streamlining the data sharing model and strengthens data rights. The proposed DUA Bill keeps in mind UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) to meet the adequacy of these regulations and strengthen the data protection.

The DUA Bill is envisioned to control the capacity of data for UK economic growth, to protect people’s personal data and to ensure adequacy to EU GDPR. Some of the key areas that DUA Bill looks closely into are –

Legitimate Interests – DUA bill brings out on no balancing test would be required, including direct marketing and security processing. Legitimate interests are most likely to be based on interest basis. The Bill gives more confidence to organisations about when they can rely on the legitimate interest’s lawful basis. The Bill also broadens the scope of legitimate interests for data processing for the purposes of direct marketing, internal data sharing and cybersecurity. This bill also focusses on restricting the potential overreach.

Automated decision making – Narrows the scope of restrictions to only explicitly prohibit automated decisions made using special category data. This bill works towards the right to be provided with information on automated decisions, and to request human intervention in the decision making to ensure adequacy of rights.

Cookies Management – Primarily focusses on reducing the frequency of cookie pop-ups for UK users by removing the cookie consent requirement for specified purposes and for exceptions. The exceptions are subject to various terms and conditions to practice, including around transparency, the right to object, and using the collected data for purposes beyond the scope of the specified purpose or exceptions.

PECR (Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulation) Fines – Maximum fines would be brought in line with the current UK GDPR thresholds in DUA Bill. Monetary penalties for certain breaches of PECR is currently at £500,000, however, will be brought in line with penalties under the UK GDPR and the DPA, up to a maximum of £17.5m or 4% of global annual turnover, whichever is greater.

DSAR (Data Subject Access Request) – Data controllers must respond to DSARs promptly and conduct ‘reasonable and proportionate’ searches to align with the regulatory requirements. Data subjects are only entitled to receive personal data found in a “reasonable and proportionate” search by the data controller. Existing ICO (Information Commissioner Office) guidance on response time frames for DSARs is added part of the DUA Bill.

International data transfers – The DUA Bill is designed to clarify the UK’s approach to the transfer of personal data internationally and the UK’s approach to conduct of adequacy assessments. It initiates a data protection test for assessing competence and ensuring the adequacy decisions are made by the secretary for the state. The DUA Bill amends the UK GDPR by empowering the Secretary of State to approve data transfers based on a new “data protection test” to strengthen the UK data security posture.

DUA Bill has primarily emended propositions in ensuring that the organisations should make sure there are appropriate adequacy practices in place to transfer personal data from the EU to the UK or vice versa. Organisations should be aware that there would be greater compliance costs, owing to the significant restrictions imposed on the international transfer of personal data under EU data protection law.

Till date, there have been two readings of the DUA Bill in the House of Lords, and it has also been discussed in detail in the committee on the key considerations while amending DUA Bill. The discussion over the Bill’s contents during the Lords committee stage exhibits the careful balancing act that the government is having to perform with EU-UK in place. Organisations are expected to consider their compliance programmes in preparation for the DUA Bill to meet the regulatory requirements and expectations to strengthen the current data protection posture. However, multi-jurisdictional organisations operating across both a UK and EU are likely to continue to align their practices with the EU GDPR expectations. However, organisations to keep in mind that the DUA Bill is at the early stages of the legislative process, and it could be amended as it passes through the House of Lords and House of Commons before being enacted in UK law. So, we need to ensure that the existing compliance practices, organisations legal and regulatory programs are evaluated to align with the emerging DUA bill expected to amend with the UK GDPR and Data protection act in 2025.

The DUA Bill is still in its initial stages, meaning everything is subject to change as it passes parliament post the last discussion in December 2024. The DUA Bill indicates a critical evolution in the UK’s data protection regime, ensuring a solid balance between regulatory compliance, data security and privacy. EU Financial Data Access regulation and the UK Data Use and Access (DUA) Bill, both expected to become law in 2025 strengthening the data security and ensuring adequacy to the EU GDPR standard requirements.

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an experienced Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Leader with overall 21 years of experience focused on Risk Advisory, Data Protection and Business Resilience.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu possess a solid balance of domain knowledge & smart business acumen ensuring business requirements and organizational goals are met.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post DUA Bill appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Importance of Cloud Security in 2025

Author4o — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:39:59 +0000

Importance of Cloud Security in 2025

Cloud computing has become one of the most used technologies across organisations in various sectors including BFSI, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education, Retail and many others adopting to various service offerings to increase the availability, scalability, and boundaries in increasing business resilience. Several cloud services are readily available for businesses to improve their day-to-day operations, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Azure Sentinel and other Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) providers. As most of the organisations depend on cloud-based technology, as remote working has become the new normalcy of delivering services, however, it’s so true to accept on evolving key vulnerabilities which is rising with the growth in technology. Organizations must take key security measures to ensure systems are secure and confidential data remains protected.

By 2025, organizations will shift from a standalone discipline to an integral part of cloud service providers’ offerings. Hyperscale’s will embed advanced capabilities directly into their platforms, moving beyond cost monitoring to deliver comprehensive, AI-driven solutions for real-time optimization and automation. Businesses of all models and sizes have realized the potential of cloud computing and have adapted to this technology either as private, public or as a hybrid model.

Some of the interesting stats:

The cloud computing market is expected to reach over $1 trillion by 2028.

58% experienced a data breach in the U.K. in the last 12 months, compared with 64% globally as per GetApp.

By 2025, the cloud is expected to hold a remarkable 100 zettabytes of data.

According to Gartner, edge computing will account for 75% of enterprise data processing by 2025, further solidifying its role in hybrid cloud architectures.

89% of organisations have adopted multicloud strategies, underscoring the importance of leveraging multiple cloud providers to avoid vendor lock-in and optimize performance, as per Flexara report.

Identity & Access Management (IAM) holds the largest market share at 46%, followed by Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Security Information & Event Management (SIEM) as per Gartner

Almost 80% of businesses are looking for a more thorough cloud security assessment.

As per stats, an organization can save up to 40 percent by migrating to cloud computing and enabling cybersecurity controls to protect the environment.

Reports have found that 84% of mid-to-large companies will have adopted a multi-cloud strategy by 2025, positioning it as one of the year’s defining trends in cloud computing.

While bringing this sudden change in adapting to cloud globally has been beneficial to continue services without disruptions, increase the scalability, maintain business continuity, and developed the availability of services beyond boundaries. However, this rapid change has brought in multiple security and data protection issues during the digital transformation. Cyber security becomes a critical concern as more companies complete their digital transformation and migrate systems/applications/data to the cloud. As the threat environment is constantly growing, it is critical to reduce the risk of cloud computing as much as possible and ensure data and systems are protected at rest, in use, and in transit. If the cloud undergoes any kind of attacks/malware/ransomware, there is a huge loss on data, reputation and continuing the business without impact.

Some of the major cloud risks are :

As per recent surveys, the average cost of a data breach is ranging between 20-32 million and it typically takes around 245 days for an organization to detect, remediate, and recover. From a sectoral standpoint, banking financial services and insurance have been adopting cloud and pushing the digitization agenda forward. However, in majority of places the importance of enabling cloud security controls to have been neglected or missed to increase the cyber incidents / data breaches significantly in recent times.

Some of the key Threats and Challenges in Cloud:

Lack of understanding about dynamic and sophisticated cloud-based threats
Non-alignment of businesses objectives/ values with risk mitigation plan
Insufficient or fragmented cloud assurance and governance framework
Multi/hybrid cloud makes assurance and governance complex
Implementation inappropriate security controls with no validation
Weak cloud security policies with limited coverage
Inability to comply with multiple regulations and legislations
Lack of third party or vendor risk management strategy/ plan

As cloud computing increases the scalability, availability and increasing the boundaries in the infrastructure, it also brings in unique security issues and challenges evolve day by day. In the cloud, cloud security plays a key role in collaborating with cloud service providers to engage in a shard service model to ensure the right level of security controls are enabled and increase the security posture of the cloud environment. Some of the key benefits in using cloud security in the cloud computing environment are –

Cloud Security Benefits :

Cloud computing provides various benefits to businesses including access to data virtually, irrespective of the place, without needing to maintain a server or physical infrastructure. However, accessing data virtually accompanies with business-critical risks which needs to be addressed and prevented using robust security controls. Each challenge in cloud brings new and different threats which requires distinctive solutions to increase the organisations resilience system. There must be various precautionary measures built and enabled in an organisation to strengthen the cloud computing technology. Organisations have to take the cloud security responsibility as a shared responsibility collaborating with cloud service providers and eradicate rising vulnerabilities proactively to build a threat free cloud security environment.

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an experienced Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Leader with overall 21 years of experience focused on Risk Advisory, Data Protection and Business Resilience.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu possess a solid balance of domain knowledge & smart business acumen ensuring business requirements and organizational goals are met.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Importance of Cloud Security in 2025 appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Cybersecurity Simplified

Author4o — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 06:24:30 +0000

Title : Cybersecurity Simplified: Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Defenders

Published by: ARCCHIE PUBLICATIONS

Authors : Dr. Gaurav Arora & Col. Inderjeet Singh

Foreword by : Mr. Siddharth Rajhans, Expert on Multilateral Diplomacy & Policy.

Technically Reviewed by : Ms. Ritu Mittal, Crafting narratives, building communities, driving impact @Nexus Venture Partners

In today’s fast-paced digital age, cybersecurity is no longer a niche concern; it’s a vital necessity. With cyber threats evolving rapidly, having a robust understanding of cybersecurity is crucial for anyone interacting with the digital world. That’s where our latest release, Cybersecurity Simplified, comes into play—a guide crafted for freshers, students, and anyone eager to start their journey in this critical domain.

The Need for Simplicity in Complexity

Authored by Col. Inderjeet Singh and Dr. Gaurav Arora, Cybersecurity Simplified breaks down the complex world of cybersecurity into digestible, easily understandable concepts. The book is designed specifically with beginners in mind, curating knowledge in a way that allows even those with little to no technical background to grasp the importance and fundamentals of cybersecurity.

In a world where cyber threats lurk behind every corner, this book empowers you with the essential tools to understand:

Why cybersecurity matters in today’s AI-driven landscape
How to protect personal and organizational data from potential threats
The basics of security protocols, encryption, and network safety
The future of cybersecurity and its evolving challenges

A Collaborative Effort to Deliver Precision

We were fortunate to have Siddharth Rajhans contribute a foreword, setting the stage with insights on the evolving intersection of technology and security. Ritu Mittal, our technical reviewer, played a pivotal role in ensuring the book’s content remains clean, accurate, and highly relevant to the readers’ needs. Together, their contributions add immense value, making this book not just another cybersecurity guide but a learning experience tailored to modern challenges.

Who Is This Book For?

While cybersecurity may sound intimidating, it’s an area where knowledge is power. Cybersecurity Simplified is for:

• Freshers and students looking to kickstart their careers in technology or IT security

• Job seekers wanting to gain foundational knowledge in cybersecurity to enhance their career prospects

• Professionals seeking a clear, concise understanding of cybersecurity to complement their existing skills

• Enthusiasts passionate about learning how to protect digital assets in a rapidly evolving landscape

What’s Inside?

The book covers a broad spectrum of cybersecurity topics in a simplified format. Some of the key areas include:

• Introduction to Cybersecurity: What it is, why it matters, and how it impacts individuals and businesses.

• Cyber Threats and Attacks: A beginner-friendly look into the types of cyberattacks and how they can compromise security.

• Protective Measures: From encryption basics to secure network setups, it demystifies the tools and techniques that form the foundation of strong cybersecurity.

• AI and Cybersecurity: Exploring how AI is changing the cybersecurity landscape—both as a threat and as a defender.

Why Cybersecurity in the Era of AI?

The integration of AI into various sectors has opened doors to unparalleled growth and efficiency. However, it has also introduced new vulnerabilities. AI, while an enabler, can also be manipulated by cybercriminals to launch more sophisticated attacks. This book sheds light on how cybersecurity is evolving to meet the challenges posed by AI and how you can stay ahead of these developments.

Available Now!

Cybersecurity Simplified is available globally, and we’re excited to bring this essential knowledge to anyone looking to safeguard themselves in the digital world. To celebrate the launch, we are offering a 15% discount for the first 50 readers who engage in our launch contest! For more information: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/arcchie-publications_cybersecurity-ai-booklaunch-activity-7238050131906805761-Ceok?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

We believe that cybersecurity knowledge is a must-have in today’s interconnected world. With this book, we hope to empower more individuals to step up as defenders in the battle for digital safety.

The book is available worldwide, and we can’t wait for you to explore its rich insights!

India | Global | Flipkart

Grab your copy today and take the first step toward mastering cybersecurity!

Available on:

Stay tuned for more updates, expert insights, and innovative ideas from :

About the Author:

Dr. Gaurav Arora
Lead Solutions Architect
IBM

Dr. Gaurav Arora has 26+ years of experience in the field of Software and application / product Development.

Dr. Gaurav Arora is a Startup Mentor,Scrum Agile Coach, Integration Architect,Open Source Developer, Fellow Researcher in AI/ML,. Legal Advisor,Teacher & Mentor.

Dr.Gaurav Arora is a Microsoft MVP Award Recipient.

Dr. Gaurav Arora is a Mentor of Change with AIM NITI Aayog, Govt. of India & Business Coach with Business Blaster, Govt of NCT of Delhi.

Dr. Gaurav Arora is a contributor to the Microsoft TechNet community.

Dr. Gaurav Arora has authored books across-the-technologies & recently,

Dr. Gaurav Arora has been recognized as a WORLD RECOD holder for writing books in exceptional technologies.

Dr. Gaurav Arora is Bestowed with the following Licences & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aroragaurav/details/certifications/

Dr. Gaurav Arora is Accorded with the following Honors & Awards :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aroragaurav/details/honors/

Dr. Gaurav Arora is Bestowed with the following Patents :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aroragaurav/details/patents/

Dr. Gaurav Arora can be contacted at:

LinkedIn | E-mail

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Cyber Threats & Growing Security Opportunities

Author4o — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 03:44:07 +0000

Evolving Cyber Threats and Growing Security Opportunities in BFSI sector

Over the years, the banking sector has experienced significant changes in adapting to growing technologies and financial services continue to evolve in enabling robust cybersecurity practices for safeguarding sensitive information, managing risks and in maintaining customer trust. With enduring technological advancements, the level of online transactions is rising day by day, offering enhanced accessibility for both customers and financial institutions. Based on the recent studies and surveys, the increase of cyber incidents and ransomware attacks reported across various industries has affected across sectors, however, financial institutions have emerged as the sector most affected.

Global Banking Security Market is estimated reach a staggering amount of US$8.52TN and is projected to result in a significant increase, leading to a market volume of US$10.83TN by the year 2029 (Source: Statista Market Insights). Despite global economic challenges, the banking sector in countries worldwide continues to innovate and adapt to digital transformation to meet the evolving needs of customers. This study has considered the base year as 2024, which estimates the market size of market, and the forecast period is 2024 to 2029. New regulations and Standards, such as Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), SOC, ISO, Basel II, Data Privacy, Consumer Privacy, Anti-Money Laundering (AML), CCPA, PDPA, GDPR, NIST, HIPAA, PCI DSS etc. need to be carefully analyzed and controls need to be defined while adapting to emerging technologies in this digital transformation period. Financial institutions should stay focused on complying with, design and implement a security framework and necessary processes in a manner to demonstrate compliance with these regulations/laws. It is important for a cybersecurity team to identify the information flowing in and out of the organization including third parties, service providers and sub-contractors ensuring the process is defined, assessed, monitored and managed to reduce risks.

What is changing in the Banking Industry –

Digitization
Cloud Migrations. Moving data to Cloud in Private/Public/Hybrid
Mobile Banking
Unified Payment Interface (UPI)
Blockchain Integration
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Adopting to Zero Trust Maturity Model
Preparing to comply with new BFSI act, DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act)
Increasing Cyber Resilience Operating Model
Privacy Implementation across Geos for securing personal data

The most common trend in the financial industry today is the shift to digital transformation, specifically mobile and online banking to increase the availability, scalability and convenience for the customers and financial institutions. As the availability increases in today’s era of unprecedented cyber threats, banks must take exclusive steps in enabling robust cybersecurity controls to use the emerging technologies with ease. Cyber security concerns influencing online banking transactions are one of the biggest concerns. Cybercrimes are increasing because of the technology’s rapid growth and widespread applications without taking required security measures. Banks must invest in next-generation security solutions to enhance the existing security posture, continuous education in increasing the competencies of the security resources while adapting to new security trends and vigilance in their digital interactions.

Cyber Risk base requirements and recommended safety measures –

Develop robust Security posture aligning to Enterprise Threat landscape
Enterprise Risk Management
Build Business Resilience acclimate to industry best stds.
Real-time detection using continuous monitoring
Giving visibility to the effects and the extent of damages by saving logs and analyzing data
Continue strengthening security methods to allow correct decisions to be made By putting these measures into practice, corporations can minimize the risks.
Manage administrative privileges with appropriate authorization and authentication
Cybersecurity Incident response plan in place.
Training & Awareness.

Some of the key changes happening around us now are –

What to expect in 2025 and beyond –

Day by Day the practices and approaches used by banking institutes are not limiting to one or two, its significantly changing the ways to address the challenges and manage them more effectively in today’s threat environment by adapting to various new gen security controls to increase the business and cyber resilience. In today’s digital society in which ICT and Internet connectivity are indispensable, ensuring security controls are in place is one of the most essential requirements in various places to manage the organization culture effectively without getting preyed to predators. Also, it’s very important to change the old legacy models and integrate the current practices with the new gen. security models to stay business resilient. Some of the key elements to relook into are –

Protection of an ever-increasing attack surface will gain importance.
Cloud Security Assessments and Implementation.
Gen AI (Artificial Intelligence) based automation for gap analysis and reducing incident response times.
Automizing Manual Efforts in doing Risk Assessments, Stress Tests, Visualization and Reporting.
100% compliance with Data Privacy and Regulations.
Global supply-chain issues will become data-protection issues.
Need for DPO (Data Protection Officer) will be in high need.

The BFSI security market offers various opportunities driven by technological innovations, growing threat landscapes, and the increasing need for robust security measures during the digital transformation. Opportunities exist for the development and adoption of various advanced next gen solutions like threat detection solutions using technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), Public/Private/Hybrid clouds using advanced data security solutions, increasing blockchain technologies, robust incident response planning and behavioral analytics to identify and mitigate sophisticated cyber threats. There are many security solutions to secure the infrastructure of a financial institution like GRC, designing and implementing zero trust, enabling robust network security controls, vulnerability management, SOC operations, endpoint security, disaster recovery, business continiuity and many more. The importance of cybersecurity for the BFSI sector cannot be overstated, given the critical role financial institutions play in managing enormous volumes of sensitive data and being involved in various online transactions. By enabling robust security controls and implementing comprehensive cybersecurity measures in the right places will help the banks and financial institutions to effectively mitigate cyber risks and safeguard their operations. Being vigilant and taking proactive approaches to cybersecurity, the BFSI industry can increase customer trust, protect customer assets, and maintain its reputation in this fast-growing digital world.

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an experienced Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Leader with overall 21 years of experience focused on Risk Advisory, Data Protection and Business Resilience.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu possess a solid balance of domain knowledge & smart business acumen ensuring business requirements and organizational goals are met.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Cyber Threats & Growing Security Opportunities appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Cybersecurity Essentials

Author4o — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:58:08 +0000

Cybersecurity Essentials : What Every Entrepreneur
Needs to Know

In today’s digital age, protecting your business from cyber threats is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Cyberattacks can devastate a business, leading to financial losses, damaged reputation, and loss of customer trust. As an entrepreneur, you must be proactive in understanding and implementing cybersecurity measures to safeguard your venture.

Image credit : Freepik

How Cybersecurity Protects Your Business and Customers

Cybersecurity is pivotal not only for protecting your enterprise but also for ensuring the safety of your customers’ sensitive data. When customers provide their personal information, they expect it to be securely managed and shielded from unauthorized breaches, the failure of which can lead to diminished trust and severe legal implications. Investing in advanced cybersecurity measures not only fortifies your business against attacks but also reinforces customer trust, enhancing your reputation and fostering stronger relationships.

Fortifying Your Digital Defenses

To shield your business from emerging threats, it’s imperative to equip every device within your network—be it computers, smartphones, tablets, or servers—with robust antivirus, antispyware, and anti-malware solutions. These essential tools act as the primary barrier, detecting and neutralizing potential threats early. However, with cyber threats becoming more complex, a single defense layer is inadequate. Adopting a multi-layered security strategy ensures that if one line of defense is compromised, subsequent layers continue to secure your data and infrastructure.

Developing Incident Response Policies

No defense system is foolproof, making it essential to establish a comprehensive incident response plan for managing cybersecurity breaches. This policy should detail the procedures for identifying, containing, and mitigating breaches swiftly and efficiently. It should also include communication strategies for notifying affected parties and regulatory authorities, ensuring transparency and accountability. Preparing these response measures in advance can drastically reduce a breach’s impact, enabling a quicker recovery and continuity of operations.

Protecting All Aspects of Your Business

Investing in cybersecurity is crucial for defending vital business assets, including computers, USB drives, servers, networks, and mobile devices. Choosing the right security measures means opting for solutions that align with your specific business requirements while staying cost-effective. Consider leveraging cloud-based security services, which provide extensive protection with minimal initial hardware costs. By strategically investing in cybersecurity, you safeguard your business’s digital landscape affordably and effectively.

Monitoring Network Activity

Constant vigilance over network activity is crucial for maintaining security, achievable through tools like firewall logs, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems. These monitoring tools are vital for detecting unauthorized access and potential threats promptly. Regularly assessing network traffic helps in staying informed about emerging threats, thereby allowing for timely adjustments to security strategies. This ongoing monitoring is critical to thwarting cyber attacks and safeguarding your network’s integrity.

Securing Remote Access Points

In the era of remote work, securing access to your network is more crucial than ever. Implementing stringent controls, such as multi-factor authentication, ensures that only authenticated users can access network resources, adding a critical security layer. This practice helps prevent unauthorized access and secures your network against external threats, particularly when employees are working remotely. Securing these access points protects your business from vulnerabilities that remote work may introduce.

Identifying Weak Spots

Conducting regular vulnerability scans is essential to identify and rectify potential weaknesses in your cybersecurity defenses. These scans are crucial for detecting issues like outdated software or improper configurations that could expose your network to attackers. By proactively identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities, you can enhance your defenses and keep your business secure. Regular vulnerability assessments are key to maintaining an edge over cybercriminals and ensuring your security measures are effective.

In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly common, cybersecurity must be a top priority for business owners. By implementing comprehensive security measures and preparing for potential breaches, you can protect your business from the devastating effects of cyberattacks. Investing in the right cybersecurity solutions, monitoring network activity, securing remote access points, and conducting regular vulnerability scans will help ensure that your business remains secure, enabling you to focus on growth and success.

Discover the latest innovations and trends in manufacturing with Industry 4.0. Stay ahead of the curve by exploring cutting-edge technologies that can transform your business today.

About the Author :

Mr. Marcus Lansky
Founder

“Mr. Marcus Lansky was born with a spinal condition so severe that his parents were told he would never walk. Lansky was a determined child, and despite the odds, he learned to walk with the help of many doctors, physical therapists, and supporters.”

If you’d like to review some of Mr. Marcus Lansky other work, please feel free to visit Mr. Marcus Lansky website

Mr. Marcus Lansky can be contacted at :

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The post Cybersecurity Essentials appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Using Gen AI in Cybersecurity

Author4o — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:50:44 +0000

Using Gen AI in Cybersecurity

Gen AI is doing rounds in the cybersecurity space and becoming a gamechanger as it can handle large amount of risk data with quick turnaround time. As cyber threats are growing significantly in this digital era, the need for robust security protection controls against cyber-attacks is increasing in this society. The amount of data that the organization holds is also humongous to digest and keep track of the wholistic picture. The lack of data visibility and gaining critical insights are weak in most places. To address the same, applying Gen AI in cybersecurity space in today’s digital-first world can enhance their cyber security measures while customizing the control points as per customer requirements and organizational needs.

Gen AI is in niche area where organizations are looking at inclining in cybersecurity controls creating tremendous opportunities to enhance security measures. Gen AI can detect potential threats and vulnerabilities by analyzing vast amounts of data while providing proactive predictive analysis, anomaly detections, threat management, automated responses to attacks, effective incident management with appropriate communications and furthermore. Additionally, the Gen AI can help the organizations in advancing authentication systems and simulate attack scenarios to test the effectiveness of security measures to enhance the cyber resilience posture.

How GenAI helps in strengthening Cybersecurity controls –

In the context of cybersecurity, Gen AI plays a versatile role in multiple layers revolutionizing traditional cyber defense mechanisms and enhancing the capabilities of cybersecurity experts/SMEs/professionals. Gen AI has already been implemented in several real-life cybersecurity scenarios, providing predictive analysis, automated response, threat detection, Incident management, authentication and security testing to enhance the current cybersecurity posture. Some of the key capabilities that Gen AI helps in strengthening Cybersecurity controls are as follows:

Imagine the potential of this new Gen AI technology integrated with industries like BFSI, healthcare, Manufacturing and cybersecurity, where it can be used to create, automate and innovate solutions to primarily addressing the evolving cybersecurity glitches. However, with enhancing opportunities and applications in cybersecurity, Gen AI comes with its own risks and challenges. Some of the key challenges are quoted below –

Challenges In Implementing Generative AI In Cyber Security

Despite the potential benefits of using Gen AI in Cybersecurity, there are always some foreseen risks and challenges associated with its. As technology grows and evolves day by day, some significant challenges are accompanied through them. Predators or cyber hackers use Gen AI to develop more sophisticated cyber threats with realistic approaches to exploit the users’ network.

Using Gen AI in Cybersecurity is a potential bias. Gen AI has become a great and essential tool in Cybersecurity because of its ability to detect and prevent cyber-attacks more efficiently than traditional methods, however, AI algorithms are prone to discriminatory outcomes due to bias. Using biased algorithms in Cybersecurity has ethical implications, particularly regarding social justice and fairness. Bias can arise from different sources that may mislead the user trying to adapt.

Ethical considerations around biased algorithms in Cybersecurity are very important from a fairness and transparency standpoint. It’s also important to ensure that training data is varied and users to reduce biases while using the AI algorithms.

Some of the key challenges prevailing in the niche environment are –

Shortage of GenAI competent resources available within the organizations in this niche area.

Implementing or using GenAI needs access to large and high-quality datasets which is a global challenge in getting the right visibility to implement GenAI in Cybersecurity.

Confrontational attacks on generative AI models are evolving, as malicious inputs can cause the model to produce misleading or incorrect outputs to the end users.

Double-edged sword: Malicious GenAI Vs penetration of valuable data.

Inconsistency around data privacy laws, policies, and regulations leading to

Misunderstood inputs due to low-quality data used to train AI systems

Transparency and explainability are critical in cybersecurity to effectively identify potential threats and validate model outputs.

Bias is a serious consideration and challenge for business while enabling GenAI in Cybersecurity, and the impact of data bias can be serious to mislead the expectations.

Malicious actors can use AI to create convincing phishing emails or messages by analyzing and emulating a target individual’s or organization’s writing styles and behavior patterns. This is an emerging threat that’s evolving day by day.

AI-generated algorithms can automate detecting and exploiting software vulnerabilities, making it faster for malicious actors to penetrate targeted systems and networks.

Gen AI based cybersecurity solutions are yet to function independently without human intervention. Cybersecurity SMEs play a critical role to ensure that AI-based cyber systems are not subject to manipulation using false logic or providing misleading outputs. However, Gen AI is changing the old legacy of manual control efforts in most of the cyber defense areas and its enhancing in the faster response to threats on sensitive data.

GenAI is capable of a lot of possibilities and managing large scale data without challenges, however, we must be mindful of the security risks or challenges it can bring. This mindful consideration is primarily due to the uncensored prompts, misleading outputs, misconceptions, accidentally revealing sensitive data, problems with storing data, difficulties with global laws, and information leak are the vulnerabilities in this growing niche area.

Addressing these evolving challenges, we need to take a holistic approach that combines Gen AI with other cybersecurity practices and ongoing vigilance to stay ahead of growing threats. The possibilities of using Gen AI in cybersecurity are truly endless, and we are only at the beginning of this exciting journey to evolve, adapt, use and protect the Business Environment.

Disclaimer : “The views and opinions expressed by Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu in this article are solely her own and do not represent the views of her company or her customers.”

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an experienced Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Leader with overall 21 years of experience focused on Risk Advisory, Data Protection and Business Resilience.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu possess a solid balance of domain knowledge & smart business acumen ensuring business requirements and organizational goals are met.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Using Gen AI in Cybersecurity appeared first on Industry4o.com.

Cyber Risks in the Digital Banking Sector

Author4o — Mon, 20 May 2024 00:53:19 +0000

Managing Third-party Cyber Risks in the Digital Banking Sector

In the context of growing digital space and emerging technology, cybersecurity is vital and third-party risk is one of the growing threats in an organization. Cybersecurity incidents and data breaches are increasing across vendors, suppliers, and other businesses not limiting to the bank. In a digitally interconnected world, the cybersecurity strength of any organization is not measured by its own defense controls but by the weakest link in the third-party sources. Hence, digital banks need to consider their third parties cybersecurity posture to an equal degree as their own to build business resilience.

Although the banking sectors work hard on keeping their ecosystem strong, it doesn’t make or take cautious efforts to eliminate third-party risks. Often the third parties are not very vigilant about their own security which could, in turn, be putting an organization at risk of cybersecurity attacks, where substantial costs and reputational damage is involved. The importance of managing third-party risk cannot be overstated in the ever-evolving banking sector landscape. Banks rely on external vendors, suppliers, and service providers to enhance efficiency, cut costs, and offer a broader range of services. However, this dependency also exposes them to a myriad of risks.

This article delves on the challenges, strategies, and best practices for effectively managing third-party cyber risks in the banking sector with deeper study for a clear understanding. Working with third parties is primarily challenging but a necessary part of the business globally. So, it’s very important for the banks to make sure that the third party they are engaging with are secure, developed, and reliable to establish a connection. Third-party cyber risk is evolving day by day increasing the risk of leaving third party cybersecurity unaddressed. It primarily focuses on identifying, analyzing, and minimizing risks relating to cyber threats/data breaches. Many have faced cybersecurity attacks, phishing attacks, malware, data breaches and other cybercrimes majorly involving their third-party partners. To mitigate the cyber risks posed by third parties, banks need to take a proactive approach to build a robust cybersecurity posture that covers everything from end-to-end to protect the vendor environment.

If business resilience is the primary objective of the digital bank, it should take precautionary measures on its standards, its approach, processes, and metrics across different third parties to reduce cyber risks and increase the third-party risk resilience. For building a robust cybersecurity culture and implement security standards in a third-party environment, it is important to understand the prevailing risks and challenges associated with third parties.

Key challenges in the Third-Party Environment :

As the banks are evolving day by day in this digital world and adapting to changing technologies, it’s very important to have clear and concise policies/procedures that outlines the organization’s needs & expectations from the third-party service providers to mitigate the risks associated with regulatory uncertainty or in defending any cyber threats that may arise. The biggest challenge in enforcing end-to-end cybersecurity governance in a third-party environment are :

Usually, banks have a structured protocols to enforce the cybersecurity culture across inhouse business functions using their enterprise policies, procedures, and guidelines, but, when it comes to third parties, banks don’t have controls over their security standards and struggle to embed their cybersecurity culture. The main principle of third-party risk management is very clear and simple, if you’re not able to control it, you will not be able to secure it. This includes everything from identifying the right set of vendors, categorizing them, defining contractual obligations with clear visibility, conducting vendor risk assessments, mitigating the risks, continuous monitoring and implementing end-to-end encryption.

Best Practices to manage Cybersecurity and Data Protection Third Party Risks :

For managing third-party cyber risks, banks should take a proactive approach to define various business requirements, build business relationships, and risk factors for building a robust cybersecurity culture. Based on the size and criticality of the vendor, banks need to work on third-party risks to evaluate and do an in-depth assessment to understand the current maturity levels. Few important factors while doing an assessment are the regions where the vendor operates, spread of the vendor employees, practicing tools and technologies, their cloud strategies, ISO status, back up plans during a cyber incident/data breach, the insurances leveraged by the third party and incident response levels.

Overall compliance with regulatory requirements is non-negotiable in the banking sector. It’s very important to ensure the security controls within the organization and with their third parties are robust to face the emerging threats in this digital space. Failure to comply with legal and regulatory requirements can lead to substantial fines and reputational damage.

Managing third-party cyber risks in the banking sector is an ongoing process that requires a proactive approach to stay resilient in nature. By following best practices and adhering to legal & regulatory requirements, the banking sector can build a cyber-resilient environment to protect itself against the evolving third-party cyber risks.

About the Author :

Tata Consultancy Services

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu has around 20+ years of experience focused on Cybersecurity, Data Privacy & Business Resilience across BFSI, Financial services, Retail, Manufacturing, Health care, IT Services and Telecom domains. She has demonstrated her core expertise in Risk Advisory, Business Consulting and Delivery assurance with diverse experience across corporate and Strategic Partners.She is a natural leader with versatility to negotiate and influence at all levels.

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is a Board Member of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) India

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is an Executive Committee Member CyberEdBoard Community

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu is Bestowed with the following Licenses & Certifications :

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/certifications/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/details/publications/

Ms. Kavitha Srinivasulu can be contacted at :

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-srinivasulu-5619ab7/

Also read Ms. Kavitha’s earlier article:

The post Cyber Risks in the Digital Banking Sector appeared first on Industry4o.com.