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Cybersecurity

India Introduces AI Governance Guidelines to Ensure Safe and Responsible Adoption

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The Indian government has unveiled its first set of Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance guidelines, outlining a framework for the safe, transparent, and ethical use of AI technologies. The non-binding rules, released on Wednesday, are expected to shape India’s long-term vision for AI regulation ahead of the IndiaAI Impact Summit scheduled for February next year. Developed under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the guidelines recommend potential amendments to the Information Technology (IT) Act to better classify AI systems and define liability across the AI value chain. The document highlights that the current definition of “intermediary” under the IT Act — covering telecom operators, search engines, and even cyber cafés — is outdated in the context of autonomous AI systems capable of generating data independently. Principal Scientific Adviser Ajay Sood noted that the new framework aims to provide clarity on responsibilities of AI developers and deployers, while also ensuring accountability. He added that the framework could serve as a model for AI governance in the Global South, especially for countries with limited regulatory resources. The guidelines also propose an India-specific AI risk assessment framework based on real-world harm evidence, along with a national database of AI incidents to track misuse, bias, and potential threats. This centralised repository will collect data from smaller regional databases managed by sectoral regulators, helping policymakers better understand the societal and security implications of AI technologies. The framework further recommends establishing new institutions to oversee AI policy, including an AI Governance Group—a permanent inter-ministerial body responsible for coordination and policy development—and leveraging the newly formed AI Safety Institute as the lead authority for ensuring safe and trusted AI use in India. Other key proposals include adopting regulatory sandboxes to allow innovation in controlled environments with limited legal exposure, and mandating accessible grievance redressal mechanisms through the existing Grievance Appellate Committee process. The guidelines also stress the need to update copyright laws to support large-scale AI model training and clarify digital platform classifications. MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan said the government is committed to acting when necessary to ensure AI is developed responsibly and ethically. The document, shaped after studying AI policies in the US, European Union, and China, and informed by over 2,500 submissions from stakeholders including academia, industry, and government bodies, marks a significant step in India’s effort to build a robust governance ecosystem for emerging technologies. Source: Economic Times

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PwC India Unveils Vision 2030, to Add 20,000 Jobs and Triple Revenue in Five Years

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PwC India has announced an ambitious expansion plan under its Vision 2030, aiming to grow its workforce to 50,000 employees within the next five years by creating 20,000 new jobs. The consulting major is targeting a threefold increase in revenue, committing over 5% of annual revenues to technology, innovation, and capability building. The company will sharpen its focus on areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, risk and regulatory compliance, cloud, and cybersecurity, positioning itself to help clients navigate rapid market disruptions. Chairperson Sanjeev Krishan emphasised the firm’s goal of building a “future-ready workforce,” with investments in upskilling, women in leadership, and inclusive career growth from entry-level to the boardroom. PwC India will allocate 1% of its revenues to learning initiatives while expanding its presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to support decentralised economic growth and align with the government’s vision of self-reliant local economies. Recruitment will focus on sector-specific and digital expertise, with growth anchored in six priority sectors: financial services, healthcare, industrial manufacturing, automotive, technology, media, and telecom. Additionally, the company will explore emerging “horizon sectors” to secure an early strategic foothold. Source: PTI

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Majority of Indian Firms Lack AI Governance Amid Soaring Data Breach Costs: IBM Report

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A new IBM study has revealed that a significant portion of Indian companies remain unprepared to tackle the cybersecurity challenges posed by rapid AI adoption. According to the Cost of a Data Breach Report 2025, nearly 60% of Indian organizations either do not have an AI governance policy in place or are still developing one, highlighting a concerning disconnect between the use of artificial intelligence and the implementation of necessary safeguards. The report underscores a growing vulnerability, as India records its highest-ever average cost of a data breach — ₹220 million in 2025, reflecting a 13% spike from ₹195 million the previous year. The increase is attributed largely to companies deploying AI tools without adequate risk management frameworks or access controls. IBM’s global analysis suggests this is not an isolated trend. While businesses worldwide are embracing AI technologies, security infrastructure is struggling to keep pace, creating fertile ground for cyberattacks on unmanaged AI systems. In India, the statistics are alarming: Only 37% of organizations have instituted AI-specific access controls. A mere 42% have mechanisms in place to detect or manage “shadow AI” — unauthorized AI tools used without IT oversight. Shadow AI has now emerged as one of the top three contributors to breach-related costs, adding an average of ₹17.9 million to each incident. However, a majority of organizations have yet to implement tools or protocols to monitor these hidden threats. When it comes to breach causes, phishing remains the leading culprit, responsible for 18% of incidents, followed by third-party and supply chain vulnerabilities (17%) and exploitation of known system flaws (13%). The research sector topped the chart with the highest average breach cost at ₹289 million, closely followed by transportation (₹288 million) and industrial sectors (₹264 million). Despite the clear advantages of using AI-powered cybersecurity solutions — which the report notes can cut breach-related costs by more than 50% — a staggering 73% of Indian organizations report minimal or no deployment of AI-driven security automation. The findings stress an urgent need for enterprises to not only accelerate their adoption of AI governance frameworks but also invest in AI-based defense mechanisms to reduce vulnerability and financial exposure in an increasingly digital world. Source: IBM

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Cybersecurity in Education: Protecting Students in the Digital World

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As classrooms evolve from chalkboards to Chromebooks, the education sector is increasingly vulnerable to one of the most pressing threats of the 21st century—cyberattacks. With institutions rapidly adopting digital platforms for learning, administration, and communication, safeguarding the digital safety of students, teachers, and institutional data has become more crucial than ever. The Rise of Cyber Threats in Education Educational institutions are gold mines for cybercriminals. They store vast amounts of sensitive data—from student records and academic histories to biometric information and financial details. According to reports, the education sector is among the top five most targeted industries globally for cyberattacks. Common cyber threats include: Phishing Emails: Deceptive emails tricking students or staff into revealing personal information or login credentials.  Ransomware: Malicious software that locks data until a ransom is paid.  Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to student records and research data.  DDoS Attacks: Distributed Denial-of-Service attacks that crash school websites or learning management systems.  Why Are Educational Institutions Targeted? Low Security Infrastructure: Many institutions, especially in developing countries, operate on outdated systems and lack dedicated IT teams.  Human Error: Students and faculty often lack training in identifying cyber threats, making them easy targets.  High-Value Data: Student identity information can be used for identity theft, while research data is valuable for industrial espionage.  Impact on Students and Learning Cybersecurity lapses in education don’t just compromise data—they disrupt learning and psychological well-being. For example: School closures due to ransomware attacks can lead to missed classes and exams.  Loss of personal data can lead to identity theft and long-term emotional distress.  Exposure to inappropriate or harmful online content through unsecured platforms can impact student safety and mental health.  Protective Measures for Institutions To build a digital fortress around education, institutions must adopt a multi-layered approach: 1. Invest in Cybersecurity Infrastructure Upgrade legacy systems and software regularly.  Use firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption protocols.  Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all user accounts.  2. Conduct Regular Training and Awareness Organize workshops for students, faculty, and staff on recognizing phishing, handling passwords, and reporting suspicious activity.  Encourage cyber hygiene practices such as not sharing credentials or clicking unknown links.  3. Secure Learning Management Systems (LMS) Opt for reputable and secure platforms.  Regularly audit permissions and user access levels.  4. Develop and Test Incident Response Plans Have a clear strategy for identifying, reporting, and recovering from cyber incidents.  Run simulation drills to ensure readiness.  5. Foster a Culture of Digital Responsibility Include digital citizenship and online safety in school curricula.  Promote ethical tech use and respect for privacy among students.  Role of Government and Policy Several governments are waking up to the urgency of cybersecurity in education: In India, initiatives like Cyber Surakshit Bharat and Digital India aim to promote safe digital practices.  The U.S. K-12 Cybersecurity Act provides funding and guidance to public schools for cybersecurity preparedness.  The European Union’s GDPR has raised awareness about data protection responsibilities in educational institutions.  Collaboration is Key Cybersecurity is not just the IT department’s job. It requires a collaborative effort between: School management to fund and prioritize digital safety.  Teachers and students to remain vigilant.  Parents to reinforce safe practices at home.  EdTech providers to build privacy-first platforms.  Looking Ahead: A Secure Digital Future for Learning Education is the cornerstone of progress—and its digital transformation must be safeguarded. As we embrace online learning, AI tools, and smart classrooms, cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought. It’s time to put student safety at the heart of digital innovation. By integrating robust cybersecurity strategies, raising awareness, and encouraging a culture of digital responsibility, we can create safe, inclusive, and future-ready learning environments—where education flourishes without fear.  

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Google’s $32B Wiz Deal: A Catalyst for Cybersecurity & IPO Surge?

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Google’s landmark $32 billion acquisition of Israeli cybersecurity startup Wiz could mark a turning point for the sluggish IPO and M&A markets. The deal, announced Tuesday, is Google’s largest-ever acquisition and follows a previously failed $23 billion bid. While IPO activity has slowed since 2021, signs of a resurgence are emerging. SailPoint went public in February, CoreWeave has filed for a $2.7 billion IPO, and StubHub has also entered the IPO race. The Wiz acquisition could further fuel momentum in both mergers and public listings, particularly in cybersecurity—an industry primed for growth as companies ramp up protection against AI-driven cyber threats. Cybersecurity: The Hotspot for Investment As businesses migrate to the cloud and AI-powered hacking grows more sophisticated, cybersecurity remains a high-priority investment. Analysts from CB Insights rank it among the top acquisition targets for 2025. “For Google, the Wiz deal strengthens its cloud security capabilities,” said Merritt Maxim, VP at Forrester. “It could also pressure Amazon (AWS) to make a competing move—perhaps acquiring Aqua Security, Orca Security, or Sysdig.” Neil Barlow, a private equity M&A expert at Clifford Chance, highlighted cybersecurity’s resilience. “Cyberattacks can cripple entire businesses. This sector is not just an investment—it’s a necessity.” What’s Next for IPOs? While Wiz’s acquisition may delay IPO plans for some cybersecurity firms, experts predict a surge in the second half of 2025. Potential IPO candidates include Proofpoint, Illumio, Netskope, and Snyk—all major players in cloud and data security. Netskope, founded in 2012, is under growing pressure from early investors seeking liquidity, while Snyk, last valued at $7.4 billion, has hinted at a 2025 public debut. “The big question is whether companies will seize the moment or wait out market volatility,” said Brianne Lynch, head of market insight at EquityZen. With Google’s Wiz buyout shaking up the industry, the cybersecurity sector—and broader tech market—could be on the verge of a new investment boom. Source: CNBC

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PM Modi Advocates for Global AI Governance at Paris Summit

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Paris, February 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for collective global efforts to establish a governance framework for artificial intelligence (AI) during the Paris AI Action Summit, which he co-chaired with French President Emmanuel Macron. Modi emphasized that AI should be developed for good and for all, highlighting India’s expertise and commitment to responsible AI innovation. India, he said, is building its own large language model to reflect its linguistic and cultural diversity. He also underscored India’s public-private partnership model that makes AI resources accessible to startups and researchers at affordable costs. Addressing concerns about AI surpassing human intelligence, Modi stressed that governance must balance risk management with fostering innovation, particularly in the Global South, where access to AI infrastructure, talent, and data remains limited. He reiterated India’s role in shaping global AI governance, citing its G20 presidency consensus on responsible AI use. The Prime Minister highlighted AI’s transformative potential in healthcare, education, and agriculture while calling for open-source systems, bias-free datasets, cybersecurity measures, and solutions against deep fakes. He also pointed to India’s low-cost digital public infrastructure serving 1.4 billion people as a model for inclusive AI adoption. Modi reaffirmed India’s readiness to share its expertise and experience to ensure AI benefits humanity while maintaining transparency, trust, and security.

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Japan’s Macnica Eyes Acquisitions in India, Expands Focus Beyond Semiconductors

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Japanese semiconductor distributor Macnica Holdings Inc. is exploring acquisitions in India and other parts of Asia as part of its strategy to strengthen its market position amidst growing competition and industry challenges. The Yokohama-based firm, which holds a 22% share in Japan’s semiconductor distribution market, is looking to diversify into sectors such as cybersecurity, self-driving cars, and healthcare to reduce its heavy reliance on semiconductors, which currently account for 90% of its sales. Macnica President Kazumasa Hara highlighted the importance of scaling up in growth regions like India, China, and Southeast Asia to navigate the complexities of US-China technological tensions, export controls, and supply chain disruptions. “We need to raise our market share as quickly as possible,” Hara stated, emphasizing the company’s low presence in emerging markets. He also revealed that a billion-dollar acquisition deal in Asia is “very likely.” In addition to its semiconductor focus, Macnica is eyeing less capital-intensive industries such as cybersecurity. “When you look ahead, that’s one area that will grow,” Hara noted. This pivot aligns with Macnica’s broader goal of mitigating risks associated with its exposure to industrial equipment chips in China, which has contributed to a 40% drop in the company’s stock since February. Domestically, Macnica aims to achieve a 30% market share by 2030 through organic growth. However, the company is less inclined toward further acquisitions within Japan, having recently purchased Glosel Co. Macnica’s expansion and diversification efforts underscore the growing need for agility and innovation in the semiconductor industry, as companies adapt to a rapidly evolving technological and geopolitical landscape. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

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NEET-PG To Be Conducted This Month, Question Paper To Be Prepared Two Hours Before Exam: Report

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The NEET-PG exam for admission to postgraduate medical courses is reportedly set to be held later this month. This development follows a meeting between the Home Ministry and officials from the government’s anti-cybercrime body. In a significant shift, the question paper will now be prepared just two hours before the exam, according to NDTV sources. Originally scheduled for June 23, the NEET-PG exam was abruptly postponed hours before its start amid a row over alleged irregularities, including leaked question papers for the undergraduate exam. The government had then said it would “undertake a thorough assessment of the robustness of processes of NEET-PG, conducted by the National Board of Examinations for medical students.” The cancellation of the exam, which saw the enrollment of thousands of aspiring medical professionals, led to widespread protests, particularly from those who had traveled long distances to take the test. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan appointed a high-level committee to investigate the complaints. The suspension of the NEET-PG exam followed public outcry over similar issues with the NEET-UG and UGC-NET tests. These exams, which play a pivotal role in confirming professorial appointments and awarding research fellowships, have been under scrutiny for potential irregularities. Minister Pradhan recently confirmed student reports that NEET-UG and UGC-NET questions were being sold on the darknet, spotlighting the National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting both exams. This revelation led to the removal of the NTA’s chief, SK Singh. The UGC-NET exam is now rescheduled to be held from July 25 to 27, while the NEET-PG exam will be organized from August 21 to September 4.  

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Akamai Doubles Down on API Security With $450M Noname Acquisition Deal

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Akamai Technologies has announced its acquisition of API security firm Noname Security for $450 million, aiming to extend protection across all API traffic locations. The acquisition underscores Akamai’s commitment to enhancing API security by focusing on improved discovery of “shadow” APIs and detection of API vulnerabilities and attacks. This strategic move comes as Akamai showcases its security offerings at the RSA Conference 2024 in San Francisco. Tom Leighton, Co-Founder and CEO of Akamai, highlighted the company’s strong results in API security, citing prior success with the acquisition of Neosec. He emphasized the increasing interest among enterprise CISOs and CIOs in bolstering API security, noting that many organizations are unaware of all the APIs within their infrastructure. Noname Security, founded in 2020, was acquired for less than half of its $1 billion valuation achieved in late 2021. Despite its relatively short history, the startup had secured substantial funding, totaling at least $220 million. The acquisition of Noname Security by Akamai is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of the year, further solidifying Akamai’s position in the API security market.  

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Google Urges US Government to Update Immigration Rules for AI Talent

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Google is urging the US government to modernize its immigration policies, particularly focusing on the Schedule A list, to attract and retain top artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity talent from around the world. In a letter addressed to the Department of Labor, the tech giant expressed concerns that outdated policies could lead to a loss of valuable talent in these critical sectors. The Schedule A list, last updated in 2005, identifies occupations with insufficient American workers. Google argues that this list needs to be expanded to include AI and cybersecurity-related fields and should be updated more frequently to reflect changing labor needs. The company emphasized the growing demand for AI talent within its ranks and stressed the importance of addressing the talent shortage to fully harness the potential of AI advancements. Google also highlighted the lengthy process of obtaining permanent labor certification (PERM) and called for a more efficient system to attract and retain top talent. Karan Bhatia, head of government affairs and public policy at Google, underscored the global shortage of AI talent and emphasized the need for the US to adapt its immigration policies accordingly. This call for immigration reform comes amid fierce competition among tech companies to attract AI talent, with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg reportedly making personal offers to AI researchers. Google CEO Sundar Pichai has also expressed concerns about losing key talent to rivals like Apple. The strict immigration policies in the US have exacerbated these concerns, making it challenging for companies to attract and retain AI talent from abroad. While President Joe Biden’s executive order on AI aims to increase AI talent in the country, Google’s letter suggests that more comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure the US remains competitive in the global race for AI dominance.

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