Staff asked to take online safety course as cyber crime rises

In recent years, the digital platforms of several ministries and departments of the Central government have experienced a significant increase in cyber attacks. In response, the Centre has now asked the central government employees, including senior officials, to undergo a brief online course on cyber security.

The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions has launched an initiative called "Stay Safe in Cyber Space" for government employees. Additionally, the ministry has curated two other courses: one on yoga and another on an orientation module called Mission LiFE.

The cyber safety course is hosted on the government's iGOT Karmayogi platform, aiming to have a positive and practical impact on the professional and personal lives of all government employees. A senior official stated, "To raise awareness about cyber safety in the workplace, it is important for all government employees to attempt and complete this course." The course will cover various methods to ensure the security of websites, digital platforms, and other password-driven digital modes of database and communication used by government employees.

The official further mentioned that many employees and officials have already completed the cyber safety course by the end of June. As of March 1, 2023, the total strength of Central government employees across various departments is approximately 34.45 lakh, projected to increase to 35.55 lakh by March 1, 2024. The Central government has nearly 93 departments, overseen by 29 Cabinet ministers, 47 ministers of state, and three ministers with independent charges.

Meanwhile, government data reveals that the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has identified over 10,000 cyber attacks targeting departments and ministries of both the Central and state governments from 2014 to 2022. CERT-In is responsible for monitoring and tracking cyber security incidents in the country.

In addition to government websites, approximately 12,691 cyber attacks were carried out on government health institutions during the same period. In response to these concerns, the government has mandated various agencies to conduct website audits and has implemented several measures to prevent data breaches and cyber-attacks.