In India, cyber laws are contained in the Information Technology Act, 2000 (“IT Act”) which came into force on October 17, 2000. The main purpose of the Act is to provide legal recognition to electronic commerce and to facilitate the filing of electronic records with the Government. A growing number of businesses keep running into problems with cyber security. As a result, many are now implementing cyber-security measures at their own expense.
However, there is never a guarantee that these measures will be enough to keep your business safe from various forms of cyber crimes and attacks, the intent of this article is to help you understand what it takes for your online business to function legally in today’s digital age.”
This article aims to tell you what you need to know before considering implementing any cyber security solutions. It will outline the most important laws that govern your business’s online activity.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is defined as a collection of practices intended to secure your business data and information that is stored digitally. Cybersecurity measures, such as encryption protocols, firewalls and anti-virus software, are similar to the physical security measures you would find at your premises.
A basic guide on cyber security for beginners
Cybercrime is any illegal activity that occurs through a computer. Cyber-criminals, sometimes known as hackers, often use information gathered online, to their advantage by stealing personal information such as social security numbers and credit card details.
In some cases, they use it in order to commit more serious crimes like identity theft and fraud. They also often attempt to gain access to web servers in order to spread malicious software or viruses. For this reason, most businesses have established cyber security policies that are meant to protect their business data and information.
Some important cyber security tips to protect your business online
1. Educate yourself about cyber security
Before you can implement any cyber security measures, it’s essential you know what they involve. Understanding the technology involved will help you design solutions that will be effective in your business context. Once you have implemented a cyber security solution, it can be helpful to involve other people to understand how they work and what they are used for.
2. Implementing a Cyber Security Solution
Making sure that any solution you choose is going to deliver the right results will ensure it is utilized correctly by your staff.
3. Dealing with a security breach
If you are targeted by a cyber-criminal or suffer an attack, your first priority should be to contain the situation. It is in your interest to enlist the help of professional cyber-security experts as you will need to make sure that sensitive information is not compromised in any way.
4. The importance of data destruction
Many cyber-criminals are looking for information that can be used for identity theft and financial fraud. Your business may already have cyber security measures in place.
There is always a risk of sensitive information being made vulnerable by human error. A recent survey found that almost half of all IT professionals admit to having accidentally sent sensitive data through an unsecured email.
5. The importance of cyber security for small business owners
One of the most common issues reported by small businesses is the amount of time and money they spend in dealing with the aftermath of a cyber attack. Studies have shown that small firms are at greater risk from cyber-attacks than larger businesses.
6. Educating your staff on cyber security
Employees often have different ideas of what they think is appropriate or sensible when it comes to cyber security, merely telling them what you do and how you do it will not be enough.
7. Cyber Security Laws
If you were setting up a security system at your home or office then you would be familiar with all the different types of doors and locks. In fact, if you were planning a new home, it is probably in your mind that you would want to install some security features both inside and out.
8. Cyber Security Policies
As a manager of an online business, it’s not only your duty but your responsibility to make sure that your business is protected at all times. No matter how small or big your business. There are some things you need to put in place that will help keep you and your staff safe from any potential cyber-attacks.
9. Cyber Security Documents
If you find that you have been the victim of a cyber-crime then it is important to report the incident. However, the first thing you need is to have documented evidence. This can include emails, chat logs, screenshots or details of social media pages used.
10. Cyber Security Helplines
The main reason for the establishment of helplines for cyber-crime was to enable victims to confide in someone who can help them through the ordeal. In the event of a cyber-attack, it is vital that you contact professionals in a time of need and not your friends or family members.
CyberSecurity laws and regulations:-
The Cybercrime Convention (2001)
The Convention on Cyber Crime is an international treaty with the intention of establishing a framework for criminal cooperation between its signatories; it was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in New York on 23 November 2001.
The Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime (2001)
The Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime is an international convention aimed at combating cybercrime in Europe. It was signed by 47 member states of the Council of Europe and entered into force on 1 July 2004. With the aim of “achieving a high level of cyber security and establishing an effective response to cybercrime.”
Council Directive (2001/29/EC)
Council Directive 2001/29/EC is an EU directive that obliges member states to include measures on electronic commerce in their national laws.
EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
The GDPR is a regulation setting standard for privacy and security for European Union citizens’ data. it includes customer and employee information, even when it is held outside of Europe. It also includes requirements for businesses that handle such data.
National Cyber Security policy(2013)
To keep at bay any cyber-attack, India introduced the IT Act in the year 2000 which was amended and brought into existence again in the year 2008. Technology literally evolves every single day. Thus, to be more vigilant and attentive against cybercrimes, India introduced National Cyber Security Policy in the year 2013. However, the policy turned out to be very weak.
In 2014, the PMO made a new position in the ministry i.e. the position of the National Cyber Security Coordinator and made Dr Gulshan Rai it’s head. He also mentioned that there was a whopping 50% rise in cybercrimes in the year 2013.
Stay safe from Cyber Threats:-
Cyber threats are defined as any threat that can exploit a vulnerability in the functioning of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) system. Related infrastructure and thereby cause loss, non-availability or malfunctioning of such ICT system, or any information contained therein.
Increasingly cyber threats are also caused by bots and custom software applications (malware). Malware includes viruses and Trojan horses that can invade ICT.
Some Best Books for Cybersecurity:-
1. Hacking: The Art of Exploitation (2nd Ed.)
2. The Art of Invisibility: The World’s Most Famous Hacker Teaches You How to Be Safe in the Age of Big Brother and Big Data.
3. Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World’s Most Wanted Hacker
4. The Code Book: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography.
5. Cult of the Dead Cow: How the Original Hacking Supergroup Might Just Save the World.
Conclusion:-
Cyber security is the fastest growing industry in the world. If you are planning to start your own business and want to stay safe from cyber threats. You need to hire a professional cyber security company that can provide services such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, machine learning and artificial intelligence. To ensure your business is fully protected from cyber threats and that it stays safe online. Contact us today for a free consultation.
