Cyber Swachhta Kendra

• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) has launched the Cyber Swachhta Kendra–Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre for analysis of malware and botnets(a network of private computers infected with malicious software and controlled as a group without the owners' knowledge) that affect networks and systems.

About Cyber Swachhta Kendra:

• Its goal is to create a secure cyber space by detecting botnet infections in India and to notify, enable cleaning and securing systems of end users so as to prevent further infections.
• Cyber Swachhta Kendra / Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre (BCMAC) works in collaboration with Industry and Internet Service Providers to trace Internet Protocol addresses infected by Bots and send message to end users regarding the same. Further, tools are being developed by partnering with Antivirus companies to enable individuals to clean their systems.
• Cyber Swachhta Kendra is being operated by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) under provisions of Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
• Cyber Swachhta Kendra (Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre) will provide the services free-of-cost. It is a Government of India initiative to make a clean and secure Indian cyber space.
• The Centre aims to enhance coordination between the Government and industry in order to encourage cyber hygiene among all end-users and to create a secure and safe internet ecosystem in India.
• The launch of the Centre will help the Internet service providers and the banks to keep their networks clean and prevent cases of cyber fraud and theft.

Analysis:

• With the expanding role of Information and Communication technology across sectors and growth in volume of transactions and data exchange via internet, Cyber has emerged as the most critical factor when we move towards Digital India.
• Combating cyber threats is not something that can be done just by the government or an organisation or an individual alone. It requires a partnership approach. This centre being launched today will work in coordination with the Internet Service Providers and Industry. This Kendra will also enhance awareness among citizens regarding botnet and malware infection along with measures to be taken to secure their devices
• With the growth in digitalization and proliferation of broadband and mobile internet, security of end users’ systems is vital for enhancing their trust in ICT and online transactions.
• User information from the computer and the mobile devices can be compromised if systems get affected with Bots. Users therefore need to practice a rigid cyber hygiene regimen to prevent malware infections on their systems and to ensure security of their systems through suitable anti-malware tools.
   

By: Vishal