SGCCI Seminar Highlights Growing Cyber Crime Threat
Experts urge entrepreneurs to adopt robust cyber security measures.
Surat - In light of the increasing threat of cyber crime, the South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) organized a seminar on July 30 to educate and alert entrepreneurs. Experts at the seminar highlighted the growing menace of cyber attacks and the urgent need for businesses to fortify their cyber defenses.
SGCCI minister Nirav Mandlewala revealed alarming statistics, stating, "More than 60 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises in India have been victims of cyber attacks." The seminar underscored that cyber crime inflicts billions of dollars in losses on the Indian economy annually, with small businesses being particularly susceptible.
Advocate Srinath Rainagarji pointed out the evolving tactics of cyber criminals. "They not only steal personal data but are now using new methods like cyber kidnapping," he said, citing a recent case in Ahmedabad involving the misuse of artificial intelligence.
Rainagarji provided essential tips to entrepreneurs to safeguard against cyber attacks:
- Use authentication apps to secure business, personal, and corporate data.
- Be vigilant about cyber attacks and avoid clicking on suspicious emails or links.
- Create strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
- Regularly update software on computers and mobile devices.
The seminar emphasized that cyber security is a collective effort, requiring teamwork to combat cyber criminals. Representatives from the Cyber Cell of Surat Police also attended, educating participants on cyber crime prevention.
Cyber crime affects everyone, and entrepreneurs must prioritize cyber security to protect their data. Advocate Rainagarji further elaborated on various types of cyber crimes, including cyber terrorism, cyber pornography, defamation, cyber stalking, and the sale of illegal items, along with preventive measures.
A technical session featured discussions by Chamber Treasurer Mrinal Shukla, Group Chairman CA Mitish Modi, Group Chairman Bashir Mansuri, and Advocate Srinath Rainagarji. Bashir Mansuri expressed gratitude to the seminar attendees, while Dr. Chintan Pathak, Chairman of the Chamber's Cyber Security Committee, conducted the session.
The seminar also saw participation from Ms. Kamela Sohrabi, Indian Representative of the University of San Diego, California; Nirav Goti, Advisor to the Chamber's Cyber Security Committee; IT sector professionals; and officials and police personnel from the Cyber Cell of Surat Police. The speakers effectively addressed questions from the attendees regarding cyber crime prevention.
Honorary Treasurer Mr. Mrinal Shukla concluded the seminar with a summary of the key points discussed, reinforcing the critical need for robust cyber security measures among businesses.