No place too safe? India’s Data Security Scenario

India is the third largest smartphone market with an estimated 117 million user base. While this indicates at a solid growth in the country’s economy, it has also triggered a data explosion with the increasing use of web based apps.

With data comes the issue of data security and the recent allegations of popular applications like OlaCabs, Gaana and Zomato being hacked doesn’t paint a rosy picture.

Mr. Vinayak Godse, Sr. Director Data Protection, DSCI answers the most pressing concerns about the data security scenario in India today.

1. Overall data security standards in India in global terms.
We haven’t seen many large scale breaches in the country. That indicates that we wither manage security well, or are particularly conservative in terms of the way we manage our IT systems.

2. Concerns about several mobile applications storing data online.
It’s surely a global concern. Data helps trigger innovation as enterprises can personalize their services to make life easier. While this can empower, it can be a matter of concern.

50+ personal attributes can be collected from conventional electronic devices while a smartphone allows 100+ attributes. The more information you generate, the more vulnerable you become.

3. Is there a way to plug data spillage, or is the vulnerability a necessary evil?
Innovative systems can be designed to be more sensitive to data security concerns and regulations can be devised to curtail mass data collection, bringing more accountability and make online processes more transparent.

It’s important for individuals to assert their privacy in cyber space so that the information collected is only used for progressive and pragmatic purposes.

4. Indian online startups are increasingly falling prey to cyber crime. Are these taking security for granted?

Indian startups have been facing persistent targeted penetrative attacks over the past few months. This is mainly due to their effortless access to personal information. The recent breaches are raising alarms, and most companies now understand the need to invest in security to safeguard their user database and retain consumer trust. It’s a learning curve for the product industry.

5. What are the savviest threats posed by cyber-criminals today?
There are three main global trends among hackers today – attacks with kinetic impact – ones which are very difficult to recover from, financially motivated crimes and using the internet as a tool to create social disharmony.

6. What can an average non-tech savvy Indian do to save himself?
Users should confirm the identity of the app they trust their personal data with, avoid performing commercial transactions over unsafe networks and consider investing in a paid antivirus service.

(Image credit: indiatimes)