In a recent announcement, Home Minister G Parameshwara disclosed plans for the implementation of a comprehensive cyber security policy by the state government in Karnataka. The minister made this declaration during the inauguration of the Cyber Crime Summit-2024, underscoring the importance of safeguarding citizens in the digital age.
Parameshwara highlighted the operational status of 43 Cyber Crime Police Stations spread across all districts of the state, emphasizing their role in ensuring public safety. Furthermore, he outlined the state’s intention to collaborate with technology companies specializing in artificial intelligence, cyber security, and cloud computing to fortify the cyber crime department’s capabilities.
To enhance the proficiency of law enforcement personnel, Parameshwara revealed ongoing training programs aimed at equipping officers and staff with the requisite skills. He mentioned that more than 33,000 individuals from the police, judiciary, and Indian Defence Forces have benefited from training sessions at the Cybercrime Investigation Training and Research (CCITR) facility housed within the CID office.
The minister also shed light on the escalating nature of cyber crimes such as deepfake, illegal money transfers, online banking fraud, and fraudulent loan applications. He noted the challenges posed by cross-border criminal activities and emphasized the need for international cooperation in tackling cyber threats effectively.
“Cybercriminals operate across borders, perpetrating attacks in one region from a remote location in another part of the world. This not only undermines market stability but also hampers investments in various sectors,” Parameshwara remarked. He urged for global collaboration in identifying and apprehending cyber offenders to mitigate the adverse impact of such activities on the economy.
In response to the rising incidence of cyber crimes, several companies have initiated research efforts aimed at developing robust preventive measures. Parameshwara acknowledged the proactive stance taken by these entities and expressed optimism about the potential breakthroughs in combating cyber threats.
The minister’s pronouncements underscore the government’s proactive stance towards addressing cyber security challenges and protecting citizens from digital threats. With the impending implementation of a comprehensive cyber security policy and strategic collaborations with technology firms, Karnataka aims to bolster its defense mechanisms against cyber crimes and uphold the integrity of its digital infrastructure.
As the specter of cyber threats looms large on the global stage, concerted efforts at the national and international levels are imperative to safeguard individuals, businesses, and institutions from the pernicious effects of cyber crimes. The efficacy of these measures hinges on effective coordination, technological innovation, and a multi-faceted approach towards combating cyber threats in an interconnected world.