Category Archives: Technology

Air India moves entire IT infrastructure to cloud, closes historic data centres

Bangalore, 06 December 2023: Air India, India’s leading global airline, has successfully migrated to cloud-only IT infrastructure, having closed its historic data centers located in Mumbai and New Delhi. This makes Air India one of the first major global airlines to have moved all computational workloads exclusively to the cloud.

 The move brings remarkable technological agility and scalability to Air India, enabling it to accelerate its digital transformation effort and roll out new digital innovations and applications to enhance operational efficiencies, and customer and employee experiences. The closure of the data centers will further result in net savings of nearly a million dollars every year.

 Dr Satya Ramaswamy, Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Air India, said: “At Air India, we have adopted ‘cloud-only’ as our computational infrastructure philosophy. For us, cloud is not just about cost savings and operational efficiencies but is a fundamental way to reimagine computing itself and a critical lever to accelerate innovation. We have adopted a strategic mix of Software-as-a-Service, Platform-as-a-Service, and Infrastructure-as-a-Service methodologies in Air India’s transformation journey, allowing us to innovate faster and provide a flexible and reliable computational and networking infrastructure for the company.”

 Given the heavy interdependency on a variety of other systems in the data centers, the entire process of migration to cloud was skillfully and carefully strategized, mapped out, and managed by Air India’s top architects and engineers in Silicon Valley in the U.S., and Gurugram and Kochi in India. The exercise required the migration of all computational workloads from several mainframes, hundreds of servers, a large amount of data, and hundreds of equipment to the cloud.

 “The contribution of our data centers to making Air India a global airline is impossible to leave uncounted. Our colleagues who have worked at these data centers for years and decades were made integral parts of this complex migration exercise, and they have been trained along the way on new skills to continue contributing to a modernized Air India”, said Dr Ramaswamy.

 Air India was one of the earliest airlines globally to have adopted high-performance computing and storage in the initial years of the computing age. The now-closed data centers were once used to drive innovations and automation across multiple spheres of the airline’s commercial and financial functions.

 Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India & South Asia, said, “We are proud to be a part of Air India’s cloud transformation journey. Air India’s successful migration to Microsoft Azure shows the power and adaptability of the Microsoft cloud, and how we can effectively support leaders in the global airline industry like Air India. We are delighted with our continued collaboration with Air India, enabling innovation and unleashing the potential of AI, at the same time building the platform for faster decision making and improved customer experiences.”

Air India will continue to accelerate its transformation journey, empowered by the new capabilities resulting from its complete movement to the cloud and the increased talent bandwidth available now to innovate rather than manage its own on-premise computational infrastructure. These would include the launch of several innovations in its customer-facing channels and in its employee experiences. These innovations will be powered by cloud capabilities in advanced data analytics and AI, such as Generative AI, that can now be embedded seamlessly all through the company’s applications.

Spin into Nostalgia: Rediscover Timeless Classics with Turntables from Audio- Technica

As the world embraces the resurgence of analog sound and the timeless allure of vinyl, meet the range of renowned turntables from Audio-Technica.

 Audio-Technica Turntables, known for superior craftsmanship and exceptional performance, cater to audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.

 60 years of innovation put into bringing an exquisite selection of turntables designed to captivate music lovers and collectors. Embodying the perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge innovation, they deliver an unparalleled listening experience transcending time.

 Here are our picks to tick off:

•  AT-LP60X: A Symphony of Simplicity and Performance Ideal for both vinyl beginners and seasoned collectors, the AT-P60X is a gateway to the world of high-fidelity audio. Priced at just Rs. 22,590, this entry-level turntable boasts simplicity with upgraded performance. The built-in preamp and USB output make it a versatile choice for every music enthusiast. Unbox the joy of vinyl, available now on amazon.in.
•   AT-LP60XUSB: Merge Nostalgia with Modernity- For those who cherish vinyl but crave on-the-go convenience, the AT- P60XUSB is your answer. Priced at Rs. 24,990, this turntable allows you to effortlessly convert your treasured vinyl into digital music files. It’s the best of both worlds – nostalgia and modern convenience. Gift your loved ones the joy of rediscovering classics. Available on amazon. in.
•   AT-LP120XUSB: Elevate Your Audio Experience- Crafted for professionals and home enthusiasts, the AT-LP120XUSB is the epitome of turntable sophistication. Priced at Rs. 56,990, it has a new DC servo direct-drive motor, adjustable dynamic anti-kate control, and a precision aluminum platter for exceptional performance. The added USB output ensures the digital archiving of your vinyl treasures.

 Present the everlasting enchantment of music to your loved ones by gifting Audio-Technica turntables. Whether you’re initiating someone into the world of vinyl or raising the experience for a seasoned collector, these turntables blend nostalgia with state-of-the-art technology.

 Turntables are more than mere audio equipment; they are a passage back in time and a jubilation of musical artistry. Make this season truly memorable with Audio-Technica turntables.

Tech Upskilling Key Focus for 87% of India’s Female Workforce: Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2023

Mumbai, December 04, 2023: With the rapid evolution of the job market driven by technological advancements, the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2023 brings to light a striking trend—87% of female professionals are actively seeking upskilling opportunities in technology-based programmes. The study, across 20 Indian tier-I and II cities, conducted by Emeritus, a global leader in world-class professional education highlights the proactive efforts of women in leveraging educational opportunities to navigate the challenges posed by the changing employment landscape – driven by tech disruptions.

 In correspondence to this growing interest among women to upskill in technology, almost on par with men (88%), the study found that women at the C-Suite level were willing to spend more out of pocket than men on their further education. Female CXOs were found willing to spend on average USD 10,000 (roughly INR 8.45 lakh) on further education within the next year, nearly USD 1500 (roughly INR 1.25 lakh) more than male CXOs. This data shows a distinctive trend where women are priming themselves to be frontrunners in the rapidly evolving tech-driven industries.

 According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), women make up only about 26% of AI job roles worldwide. As per Skillsoft’s 2022 Women in Tech report, 60% of the women surveyed say that men outnumber them in their organisation for leadership roles at ratios of 2-to-1 or greater. This disparity and the gap can be diminished only through the upskilling of women in the tech sector.

 Female participants across various seniority levels, including junior management (34%), middle management (27%), senior management (21%), and owners (38%), expressed the highest willingness to invest in the US$100-US$399 (roughly INR 8,000 to 34,000) price range for upskilling in a year. Conversely, those at the C-Suite level (32%) demonstrated a slightly greater inclination to spend on higher-cost upskilling programmes, between US$ 10,000 – US$50,000.

 Among the primary motivations for upskilling among women and men across seniority levels, as observed from the study, were increasing self-confidence, developing leadership skills, job security and staying abreast of the latest knowledge in the field. The Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2023 also revealed that while the male workforce increasingly prefers shorter programmes (the majority willing to spend up to 2-3 months on a programme), female professionals across seniority levels, stand out for their readiness to dedicate 4-6 months for upskilling.

 Commenting on the findings from the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2023, Mohan Kannegal, CEO, India and APAC, Emeritus, said, “These gender-based insights from the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2023 underscore the remarkable enthusiasm of female professionals in embracing upskilling opportunities. It is evident that women are keen to position themselves as
leaders in the tech-driven job market. The data reflects a strategic approach, with women at various seniority levels dedicating significant time and resources to stay ahead in dynamic industries. We, at Emeritus, are glad to be a part of the upskilling revolution in the country. By partnering with leading educational institutions around the world, we are able to bring world-class education to India’s cities and towns.”

 The study surveyed a total of 1,720 Indians aged between 21 and 65 years, hailing from across 20 tier-I and II cities in India. The average age of the respondents was 39, and the average work experience was 12 years.

BLS International Opens a New State-of-the-art Visa Application Centre in Delhi

New Delhi, December 1, 2023: BLS International, a trusted global tech-enabled services partner for governments and citizens and a global leader in visa processing and consular services, today announced the inauguration of its new Visa Application Centre in Delhi. This new centre is part of BLS International’s commitment to enhancing the customer experience and streamlining the visa application process.

 The newly inaugurated visa application centre, located at Dr. Gopaldas Bhawan, Barakhamba Road, is designed with cutting-edge infrastructure, advanced technology, and increased capacity to accommodate the growing demand for visa services. Spanning 7000 square feet the modern facility ensures a seamless experience for applicants, with state-of-the-art biometric enrollment and document verification systems. This prestigious center was inaugurated by His Excellency Mr. José María Ridao Domínguez, the Ambassador of Spain, adding significance to the event.

Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director at BLS International, expressed enthusiasm about the new centre, stating, “With great pride, we announce the inauguration of our enhanced facility in Delhi—a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering unparalleled services to our valued clientele. Our commitment to excellence in visa processing is etched in the very foundation of our updated infrastructure, propelled by the integration of cutting-edge technology and a substantial expansion of capacity. This milestone reflects not just our progress but our steadfast promise to elevate every journey, reinforcing our legacy of exceptional service and reliability.”

“We would like to congratulate BLS International for opening the new visa application centre and improving the visa processing services. It is great to see that BLS understands our philosophy behind the visa/consulate section. We strongly believe in the dignity of the people and are committed to giving respect to all the people in Spain. We are a visa-friendly country for various reasons, such as trade and tourism, and beyond this, we fully aim to provide positive hospitality to all people in any part of the world. We are happy to share that we have received a green flag from the Indian government to open a new consulate in India soon which will be in Bangalore, and at the same time, India will open its consulate in Spain.” – H.E. Mr. José María Ridao Domínguez, Ambassador of Spain.

The new office boasts a significantly larger space to comfortably accommodate up to 1000 applicants daily. The expanded facilities aim to reduce waiting time and focus on capacity building to handle increased demand, ensuring timely processing of visa applications. The centre is staffed with trained professionals dedicated to providing exceptional service. The visa application centre features a modern and welcoming design, creating a positive environment.

Additionally, the event witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including government officials and diplomats, highlighting the significance of BLS International’s role in facilitating international travel.

On World Computer Literacy Day, writer Mandakini Dwivedi on adapting to technology: Was excited to learn but also a bit scared

In the past, writers crafted their thoughts with pen and paper, a tradition that evolved as technology advanced. Computers, followed by laptops, phones, and tablets, became the new medium for writing. Change is gradual; some adapted swiftly, while others, particularly in the heartland of India, took their time, catching up gradually. As we celebrate World Computer Literacy Day on December 2nd, a global observance dedicated to promoting digital skills, writer Mandakini Dwivedi from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, shares her journey into the world of computers and its transformative impact.

 Mandakini, a talented writer from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, joined Pocket FM during the Covid-19 pandemic. Formerly a teacher and counselor in a government organization, fate led her to take a chance on life by joining the global audio series platform. While she used to write with pen and paper in her early writing days, joining Pocket FM introduced her to the world of computer writing.

 Reflecting on this shift, Mandakini said, “I’m new to writing stories on the computer. I did write in a diary before. It’s a bit different; the computer feels a bit heavy. I was excited to learn but also a bit scared. I wondered, ‘Can I do this? Can I make a living?’ Tasks that took one hour with a pen now take three on the computer. There were moments of doubt, but I believed in myself. It was a chance to try something new without spending money. I left my city and kept writing. It took time, but eventually, my computer became faster than using a pen.”

 Acknowledging the challenges in the transition, Mandakini shared, “Suddenly, everything changed with the first computer screen. I didn’t spend much time, and my eyes hurt from staring at the computer all day. There were health problems and changes in my writing style. Change is tough; it starts in the gut. But I made it a habit to ignore problems and focus on writing. That’s where I found my challenge. Over time, what used to take three hours to write now only takes one. This victory is big for me because I write just for a day.”

 In a message for those hesitant to adopt technology, Mandakini expressed, “We’re in the age of technology, especially AI. If you don’t adapt and update and stay relevant, changing trends and time will leave you behind. Embrace the paperless trend because social media and technology are everywhere. If you’re not creatively inclined, social media is there at your disposal. But if you want a new identity, you have to become tech-savvy. It’s the computer age, and being tech-savvy is the way to go.”

 Mandakini has penned the successful audio series ‘Amrapali’ for Pocket FM, and *when asked about listeners’ response, she mentioned, “Even today, listeners comment for Amrapali, saying she should continue. Even after the show ends, both new and old listeners keep sharing positive feedback and comments. They’re eagerly waiting for the next season of Amrapali Nemzhu. It has given the series a new identity, and I never expected this much love from people after the show ended. Reading those happy comments makes all the worries and fatigue in the day disappear.”

PhonePe’s Indus Appstore powers up, onboards major game developers

•  MPL, Dream11, Nazara Technologies, A23, RummyCulture, RummyTime, Junglee
  Rummy, Rummy Passion CardBaazi, Taj Rummy, and more have partnered with the Indus Appstore
•   Zero In-app Commissions and Localized Reach: Game-Changing Features Excite Developers

National, November 30, 2023: PhonePe’s Indus Appstore, India’s very own Android-based mobile app store, announces the onboarding of leading game developers, revolutionizing the gaming experience for users across the nation.

 In a groundbreaking move Dream11, Nazara Technologies, A23, MPL, Junglee Rummy, Taj Rummy, Rummy Passion, RummyCulture, RummyTime, and CardBaazi have partnered with the Indus Appstore.

 This partnership promises to enhance the gaming experience for millions of users, providing a diverse range of quality games that align with Indus Appstore’s commitment to diversity and innovation.

 PhonePe’s Indus Appstore’s commitment to supporting developers is highlighted by the zero commissions on in-app payments, a stark contrast to other app stores charging hefty fees ranging from 15-30%. This revolutionary move empowers developers to focus on crafting immersive gaming experiences without financial constraints. Additionally, the platform’s localization feature ensures that these games can now reach every corner of India, offering content in the language of the user’s choice.

 Speaking on the partnership Akash Dongre, Co-founder of Indus Appstore, said “We are thrilled to welcome these gaming giants to the Indus Appstore family. Their expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch gaming experiences align seamlessly with our vision. Together, we look forward to crafting the next growth story in the Indian gaming industry.”

 Partner Quotes

 ● Sunit Warraich (CEO), CardBaazi: “With Indus Appstore, we’re set to redefine the card gaming sphere, providing not just entertainment but a commitment to fair and rewarding interactions for players. With Cardbaazi’s immersive gameplay and Indus Appstore’s supportive environment, we’re excited to offer an unmatched card gaming escapade, enriched by zero commission on in-app purchases, fostering a community passionate about fair play and
enjoyment.”

 ● Manish Shrivastava (VP Marketing), MPL: “Being a platform that has an enviable roster of games, MPL’s aim is to make gaming accessible to people all across the country, giving users the opportunity to play games of skill that they’d want. Partnering with Indus Appstore will help us reach out to the India we are building for.”

 ● Amandeep Singh (CMO), Rummy Passion: “We are looking forward to scale our product, Rummy Passion, on the Indus Appstore and are eager to explore the significant growth opportunity that awaits us. Indus Appstore’s India-based Support Team stands out, offering real-time and dedicated support—an invaluable resource ensuring seamless user experience. We believe this partnership will help us drive widespread user product adoption and engagement.”

 ● Pratik Sahu(AVP Marketing), Gameskraft: “Partnering with Indus Appstore will open avenues to reach the newer audience for Gameskraft. Their ingenious video-led app discovery experience will help spark a significant wave of awareness for our apps. We are looking forward to being part of India’s first appstore and reaching a wider audience.”

 ● Sudhir Kamath(COO), Nazara Technologies: “Our dedication to bringing diverse gaming experiences to players across different platforms aligns perfectly with Indus Appstore’s vision of empowering users with a variety of quality apps. We’re thrilled to join this innovative platform,  further expanding our reach and offering our engaging games to a broader audience.”

 ● Bhanuchander B (Head of Marketing), Taj Rummy: “Indus Appstore’s distinctive advantage of Localized App Listing resonates deeply with us—it’s a bridge to connect with Bharat by embracing their language and culture. This tailored approach amplifies our reach, offering a more personalized gaming experience. Together with Indus Appstore, we’re poised to elevate the joy of rummy gaming, ensuring our platform resonates authentically with diverse audiences.”

 ● Sudarshan (Senior Director, Acquisition), A23: “We’re thrilled to join forces with Indus Appstore and are excited about unleashing our gaming experiences to a broader audience. With targeted advertising solutions, we’re poised to reach the right users, engage effectively, and drive conversions. Join us in this exciting journey as we captivate audiences and elevate the gaming experience with Indus Appstore’s tailored advertising solutions”

Getting Around the Cloud: Information Security and Navigation Go Hand in Hand

Information security and cloud computing go hand in hand in today’s quickly changing technological landscape. This essay explores the complex relationship between these two domains, showing how cloud computing not only changes the way we manage data but also offers opportunities and challenges for protecting sensitive data.

1. The Cloud Shown Off

Cloud computing provides previously unheard-of levels of scalability, flexibility, and accessibility. It is frequently compared to a virtual playground for data. The traditional limits of data processing and storage are being redrawn as businesses move their operations to the cloud. To understand how cloud technology affects information security, it becomes necessary to look at its underlying theories.

 2. Cloud Security

Security issues are brought to light as data moves across the cloud’s digital thoroughfares. In this ever-changing environment, identity management, access controls, and encryption stand out as essential components of information security. This section examines the strong security protocols that cloud service providers have put in place as well as the joint accountability that providers and users share to guarantee a strong defense against cyberattacks.

 3. Problems and Their Fixes

Although the cloud offers many advantages, it also presents a unique set of difficulties. Organizations face a variety of security challenges, ranging from data breaches to compliance problems. This section tackles these issues head-on and looks at creative solutions to strengthen the cloud against emerging cyber threats, such as continuous monitoring and sophisticated encryption algorithms.

4. Cloud and Information Security Integration

Information security and cloud computing must work together seamlessly; this is not just a goal. This section explains how companies can build a strong and resilient technology infrastructure by utilizing the synergies that exist between these domains. It talks about how important it is to take a proactive approach to security, stressing that businesses must be alert and flexible to deal with constantly changing threats.

 5. Looking Ahead

Both the technological landscape and the way cloud computing and information security interact are always changing. This last section looks into the future and discusses new developments like edge computing, quantum-safe cryptography, and artificial intelligence’s role in strengthening the cloud. It emphasizes how crucial it is to keep up with the times in order to guarantee data security in a digital ecosystem that is getting more and more complicated.

 According to Prof.(Dr.)cDirector & Principal FoE & CCSIT, TMU Moradabad

 It’s critical to comprehend the complex relationship that exists between cloud computing and information security as the world grows more interconnected. This piece acts as a compass, assisting readers on their journey through the cloud’s transformative potential and offering guidance on overcoming its obstacles.

Infinix Unveils Smart 8HD: Setting New Standards in Design and Display

Delhi, 24th November: Infinix is set to redefine the budget smartphone market, and is gearing up to unveil the Smart 8 HD, succeeding the immensely popular Smart 7 Series. The Smart 8 HD promises a paradigm shift in the budget smartphone landscape, boasting a very stylish and premium design and several upgrades compared to its predecessor.

 A standout feature of the Smart 8 HD is its impressive display, setting a new standard in the segment with a groundbreaking 90Hz punch-hole display offering users a remarkably smooth and responsive screen experience. The 6.6-inch HD+ Sunlight Readable display with 500 Nits peak brightness ensures optimal visibility even in bright conditions, further elevating the user experience. Adding to the allure is the premium design of the Smart 8 HD, featuring a textured back panel that not only enhances the device’s aesthetic appeal but also provides a comfortable grip. In a move aimed at elevating user convenience, Infinix introduces a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a first in its segment. This innovative placement not only streamlines the unlocking process but also contributes to the overall sophistication of the device. The smartphone also comes with UFS 2.2 storage and Type C charging.

 To cater to diverse preferences, the Smart 8 HD comes in four striking Color variations Crystal Green, Shiny Gold, Timber Black, and Galaxy White. Anticipated with excitement, this device is set to launch on 8th Dec, which sets the bar higher for budget smartphones.

The Weakest Link in the Cybersecurity Chain – The Human Element

By Sundar Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Check Point Software Technologies India & SAARC

In my 2-decade career in cybersecurity, I have observed firsthand that while technology plays a significant role in protecting organizations, the human element is equally crucial. It is often said that the most sophisticated security protocols can be undermined by a single click from an uninformed or careless employee. In this article, I aim to shed light on the often-overlooked ‘human factor’ and provide recommendations to help businesses bolster this weakest link in the cybersecurity chain.

The current threat landscape
The global cybersecurity landscape is complex and ever-changing, with new vulnerabilities and threats surfacing almost daily. According to Check Point’s Threat Intelligence Report, in the last six months, an organization in India has been attacked on average 2146 times per week in the last 6 months, compared to 1239 attacks per organization globally.

 We’ve come a long way in implementing Zero Trust Architectures, implementing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and more to safeguard our organizations. However, it’s startling to note that most security incidents are not solely the result of sophisticated hacking techniques, but are often aided by human error.

 Human errors, like falling for phishing emails, weak password practices, or accidental data leakage, can make an organization’s fortified network vulnerable. These mistakes are not just limited to junior staff; even executives fall prey to such attacks. It’s evident that no one is immune, making human factors an urgent concern for every organization. For example, the recent MGM Resorts breach was a result of simple social engineering. The threat actor tricked the help desk attendant into resetting a password without sufficient information.

The cost of negligence

 Neglecting the human factor can result in considerable financial loss, damaged reputation, and loss of customer trust. Sometimes, the damage is irreversible. In the wake of an incident, organizations often realize they could have avoided the breach had they invested
inadequate human-centric security measures.

 Additionally, starting December 18, 2023, the SEC will require public companies to report material cyber incidents within four business days. This will bring greater transparency to investors and customers, and will also shine a spotlight on companies experiencing material breaches.

Strategies to Reduce Human-induced Risks

 In my role as an Architect and Evangelist, I strongly advocate for the integration of human-centric strategies into your cybersecurity approach. Remember, the most effective security strategy is one that accounts for both machine and human vulnerabilities.

 In my experience I have seen CISOs making certain changes to reduce this risk by doing the following:

 Phishing attacks
The art of deception is a hacker’s best tool. Employees often fall victim to emails or messages that appear genuine but are designed to gather sensitive information or install malware. According to Tanla Platforms, approximately 300 million individuals in India are
susceptible to phishing attacks, with around 500,000 individuals being at risk of falling victim to scammers. Most organizations keep their defense limited to corporate email and ignore the biggest threat vector around Mobile Threat Defense – protecting employees from falling prey to a texting or smishing attack via different chat applications or personal email running on the same mobile device. In fact, the average cost of a phishing breach is $4.76M. This clearly needs to be a focus for better protection.

 Cyber training
Most organizations conduct a one-off phishing exercise to satisfy compliance needs and forget that cyber threats are continuously evolving. Employees must continuously update their defenses against these evolving threats.

Regular training on good cyber hygiene is very important for reducing the chances of a human error causing a breach. The good news is that there are many training options – from virtual escape rooms to phishing games to advanced cyber courses.

 Credentials management
Security leaders across industries have the challenging task of ensuring that their organization’s digital assets are protected. One of the key aspects of this is password management. Here are some recommended best practices.

 ● Zero Trust Architecture: Adopt a zero-trust model where no user or system is trusted by default. All must go through verification and authentication, regardless of their location relative to the network perimeter
● Single Sign-On (SSO): Consider implementing SSO solutions to reduce the number of passwords an employee needs to remember. However, ensure that the SSO solution itself is extremely secure

● Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security, usually involving something the user knows (password) and something the user has (a mobile device to receive a one-time code on either an Authenticator App or Text message). According to the Thales Access Management Index 2022 conducted by the research firm 451 Research, India achieved the highest percentage increase in the adoption of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and the highest overall percentage of MFA usage, with a 19-percentage-point increase to reach 66% this year. Following India, Singapore showed a notable increase of 17 percentage points in adoption, reaching 64%, and the UAE followed suit with a 10- percentage-point increase, reaching 65%.

 ● Periodic Audits: Conduct regular audits to ensure that password policies are being followed. Many modern systems allow admins to see if users are reusing passwords or if they are not changing them frequently enough.

 ● Account Lockout Policies: Implement an account lockout policy that temporarily locks accounts after a certain number of failed login attempts. This can thwart brute-force attacks but should be balanced to not lock out legitimate users unintentionally.

 ● Password Expiry and Rotation: Regularly requiring users to change their passwords can prevent attackers from gaining prolonged access to an account.  However, this needs to be balanced as very frequent changes can lead to poor password choices.

The non-technology changes or enhancements to reduce risk
Based on industry-available data and surveys, CISOs and CEOs also take advantage of the following non-technology solutions to secure their organizations.

 Implement a change control/management system: I can’t overstate the importance of implementing a multi-approval level change control system. In an era of complex cyber threats, the human element often becomes a vulnerability. A multi-tiered approval process allows us to add layers of scrutiny, involving varied roles from tech specialists to executives, effectively reducing single points of failure. This approach minimizes risks tied to human error and ensures alignment with our cybersecurity strategies. It serves as a vital checks-and-balances system, making our cyber-defense more resilient and adaptive to the evolving threat landscape.

 Culture of Accountability
● Reward Programs: Implement reward programs for reporting vulnerabilities or potential risks
● Transparency: Maintain an open dialogue about the importance of security

Vendor Risk Management
● Due Diligence: Perform due diligence before onboarding new vendors. Ensure they adhere to your organization’s security standards.
● Continuous Monitoring: Regularly audit vendor security compliance.

 Legal Framework
● Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): Get legal contracts in place to protect sensitive information.
● Regular Audits: Ensure compliance with data protection laws and industry standards.

Incident Response Plan: In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, it is no longer a question of if a security incident will happen, but when. This makes having both an effective Incident Response Plan (IRP) and an in-house Red Team indispensable for any organization serious about its cybersecurity posture.

 In a world saturated with cyber threats, focusing solely on technological solutions is akin to building a fortress but leaving the gate unguarded. In fact, Rupal Hollenbeck, President of Check Point, often says that cybersecurity is really about “people, process, and technology – in that order.” By elevating the awareness and understanding of the human factor in cybersecurity, organizations can build a more robust, comprehensive defense against cyber threats.

Cashfree Payments launches ‘KYC Link’ – India’s first no-code verification solution to empower Indian businesses in their digitalization journey

● A seamless way for merchants to verify user identity eliminating the need for technical expertise thereby enhancing accuracy and reducing drop-offs
● The solution is the newest addition to Cashfree Payments’ Verification Suite which is India’s fastest-growing Verification Platform, authenticating over 40 cr+ individuals annually
● In the last few months, Cashfree Payments has launched multiple revolutionary innovations such as BNPL Plus, UPI Autopay, and Flash UPI among others

 Bengaluru, November 21, 2023: – Cashfree Payments, India’s leading payments, and API banking company announced the launch of ‘KYC Link’ – India’s first no-code verification solution for Indian businesses, marking a significant leap in simplifying digital identity verification for MSMEs, emerging and digitally transitioning sectors. The solution eliminates the need for extensive technical expertise, allowing businesses to adopt KYC solutions on day 0, and accelerating revenue generation from newly onboarded users.

 Announcing the launch, Akash Sinha, CEO, and Co-founder, of Cashfree Payments said, “We are excited to introduce India’s first no- ode verification solution, KYC Link, to help Indian businesses across MSMEs, emerging and digitally transitioning sectors address verification constraints seamlessly. Built and developed in-house, this solution will revolutionize customer experience, reduce user drop-offs, and unlock a higher verification completion rate while helping businesses get compliant with applicable regulations at lower cost. At Cashfree Payments, we continuously problem solve through our engineering excellence, and through industry-first launches like these, our aim is to build products and solutions that will support the Indian business ecosystem to grow, thrive, and set new benchmarks.”

 With KYC Link, merchants can effortlessly send verification links through SMS, email, or WhatsApp to the user’s mobile number, providing a seamless experience and ensuring a close to 99% success rate. This process can be automated, saving time and resources for the merchant, or done manually as per their preference. Due to its user-friendly interface, the solution mitigates user drop-offs, enhances the overall customer experience, and achieves a higher verification completion rate.

 Addressing the technological excellence behind the groundbreaking product, Ramkumar Venkatesan, CTO at Cashfree Payments, “KYC Link is a powerful metadata-driven, no-code platform designed for dynamic customisation and easy maintenance. Our engineering team has utilized a proprietary Domain-Specific Language (DSL) and tools to generate customized dynamic forms for our merchants, ensuring a seamless user experience. We are excited to introduce yet another industry-first product and look forward to delivering accessible and efficient solutions as per market requirements.”

 KYC Link incorporates all existing verification solutions offered by Cashfree Payments, including Bank Account Verification (across a network of 600+ banks), UPI, PAN, and Aadhaar among others. Also, the solution enables businesses to generate personalized KYC verification links, with the feature to incorporate a business logo and color scheme to enhance the brand experience.

 KYC Link is the newest addition to CashFree Payments’ Verification Suite, which is India’s fastest-growing Verification Platform, authenticating over 40 cr+ individuals annually. Businesses can process over 10,000 verifications at once through Excel upload or a simple API integration. Verification Suite by Cashfree Payments helps businesses verify the identity and source of funds of individual users and partner businesses like suppliers or service providers through the authentication of Aadhaar, PAN, GSTN, Bank Accounts, and UPI handles among others.

 Cashfree Payments today is among the leading online payment aggregators and also leads the way in bulk disbursals in India with its Payouts with over 50% market share. India’s largest lender, SBI invested in Cashfree Payments underscoring the company’s role in building a robust payments ecosystem. Cashfree Payments works closely with all leading banks to build the core payments and banking infrastructure that powers the company’s products. Cashfree Payments is also integrated with major platforms such as Shopify, Wix, Paypal, Amazon Pay, Paytm, and Google Pay. Apart from India, Cashfree Payments solutions are used in eight other countries including the USA, Canada, and UAE.