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Sachin

Question 6Discuss and analyzeGS1GS1

The recent rise in ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure and major corporations has highlighted the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures and policies. Discussing the key factors contributing to this trend, analyze the impact of these attacks on various sectors. (Answer in 250 words) 15 Marks

Open scan (p.13)

Introduction

Cyber Safety Insights Report notes that cyber crimes cost India $4 billion (and increasing) every year with ransomware attacks being the most common type of cyber attacks (ex) Wannacry ransomware attack

31 words

Main Body

Key factors behind rise in ransomware attacks

1Fragmented legal framework - India lacks comprehensive legal framework for cyber security
2Federal issues - 'Police' & 'public order' in state list
3Insufficient cybersecurity infrastructure (ex) India needs around one million cyber security professionals
4International nature of crimes - collection of evidence from foreign territory is difficult
5Lack of cybersecurity awareness (ex) only 47% use VPN to secure their online activity

Impact of ransomware attacks

1Service sector - Disruption of services (ex) India - 2nd most targeted country in cyberattacks
2Finance sector - Rise in financial crimes, frauds and disruption to financial inclusion initiatives (ex) Reluctancy to use UPI, online banking, etc by common public
3International relations - 80% of Indian organisations reported data breach causing reputational damage
4Security threats - Target of critical infrastructure such as power grids, financial institutions, etc
5Social infrastructure - Ripple effect over health & educational institutions

[Diagram: 'Way forward' central node connected to Cyber command to combat cyber warfare, Robust regulatory mechanism, International best practices (ex) Talinn manual, Education in cyberspace, PPP model of cybersecurity]

India's global leadership in digital space starts with robust cybersecurity in domestic realm

India's response to cyber attacks

A) Legal measures

1National Cybersecurity Policy, 2013
2Information Technology Act, 2000
3National Digital Communication Policy, 2018

B) Institutional frameworks

1CERT-IN - Computer Emergency Response Team
2National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre
3National Cyber Security Coordinator
4Cyber Swatchhta Kendra

C) Committee recommendations

1Justice B.N. Srikrishna committee for data protection act
2Kris Gopalvarma committee for non personal data protection

Cyber security, hence is crucial for both financial & national security

283 words8 paragraphs

Conclusion

Cyber security, hence is crucial for both financial & national security

11 words

  • Data-backed intro with cost figures
  • Case study of WannaCry

Topper

Sachin

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Indian Society

Cyber Security

Ransomware attacks - key factors and impact

Writing Stats

325

Total words

8

Paragraphs