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19, Oct 2023

Celebrate Diwali in Style with JW Marriott’s Exclusive Hamper designed by Manish Malhotra

Celebrate Diwali in Style with JW Marriott's Exclusive Hamper designed by Manish Malhotra

This Diwali, JW Marriott Bengaluru is delighted to present a fusion of elegance and mindfulness in the form of exclusive Diwali hampers designed by the iconic Manish Malhotra and our Shunya boxes. These offerings are designed to enrich your celebrations with style and well-being, making them truly special. Savor a delectable assortment of macarons, a symbol of luxury, along with an array of traditional Indian sweets. These hampers are curated with bespoke goodies that are as unique as they are delicious, each one carefully chosen to enhance your Diwali celebration. Our Shunya boxes are meticulously crafted with handpicked natural ingredients, inspired by the lush, serene mountains of Uttarakhand. They are a dose of Pahadi goodness that transports you to nature’s calm embrace. Processed using traditional methods and nurtured by the love and hard work of over 500 female village farmers from 11 villages, each situated at a height of 7000ft above sea level, our Shunya boxes promote good health and wellness. These are not just gifts; they are an embodiment of the festive spirit and an elegant way to express your love and warm wishes. Whether for family, friends, or colleagues, gifting these hampers is a gesture of love and celebration.

Elevate your Diwali gifting experience with the elegance of Manish Malhotra and the mindfulness of Shunya boxes. Order your exclusive Diwali hamper or Shunya box today and let your celebrations shine with style and serenity.

Product Details: (Exclusive of tax)

JW Specific –

JW Signature Handcrafted Chocolate Box – 1250 onwards
JW Handcrafted Macaroons Box – 750 onwards
JW Mithai Box – 1250 onwards
JW Emerald Hamber (contains cookies, sweets, nuts, honey, diya/toran/idol, and chocolates) – 3500
JW Opal Hamper (contains homemade chocolate bar, homemade cookies, roasted nuts, caramel spread, premium wafer, premium coffee, premium honey, diya/toran/idol, and chocolates) – 5500
JW Moonstone Hamper (contains homemade cookies, Indian sweets, healthy chocolate bar, Italian herbed cashew, Italian herbed almonds, zesty spinach nachos, quardartini wafers, premium coffee, organic tea, scented luxury candle, premium honey, beetroot crisp, handcrafted chocolates, and diya/toran/idol) – 8500
JW Imperial Hamper (contains handcrafted chocolates, homemade cookies, healthy chocolate bar, Italian herbed cashew, Italian herbed almonds, quardartini wafers, shortbread biscuits, simpkins jelly, premium coffee, organic tea, scented luxury candle, premium honey, beetroot crisp, Forest essential gift hamper, and diya/toran/Ganesh) – 12000 or 18000

Diwali by Manish Malhotra –

18 pieces sweet box – 1500
36 pieces sweet box – 3000
Nuts and Sweets – 2000

JW Shunya – India Hamper Boxes –

Pancha Bhuta Collection Shunya Hamper Box (contains lavender, jasmine, rose, panch tulsi, and brahmi blend) – 3500
Welness Tisane Box Shunya Hamper box (contains classic Humalayan damask rose, liver booster, stress relief, detox and cleanse, classic Himalayan stinging needle, classic Hmalayan kalmegh, and black turmeric honey) – 2000

To place order please reach out to 8884420220

19, Oct 2023

SMA Sapience Celebrates Grand Opening of Global Competence Center in Bengaluru

19 October, 2023, Bengaluru: SMA Solar Technology AG, a renowned German multinational inverter company, leading the way in Solar PV Inverters, Energy Storage, and Power Electronics, is delighted to announce the successful grand opening of its Global Competence Center -SMA” Sapience” in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The celebration was held at the prestigious Hilton Hotel, Manyata Business Park, on the 18th of October, 2023.

The company’s Global Competence Opening Celebration marks a significant milestone in SMA Global’s history as it establishes a hub to cater to its worldwide installation base and customers. The event highlights the deep commitment of this prominent German MNC to the Indian market and its global operations.

Ms. Barbara Gregor, CFO of SMA Solar, Global Competence Center expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “We are truly honored to inaugurate our Global Competence Center – SMA ”Sapience” in Bengaluru, India. This marks a pivotal moment in SMA Solar’s journey, and we look forward to furthering our commitment to renewable energies and the Indian market.”

Distinguished guests and dignitaries graced the momentous occasion, including top executives and esteemed dignitaries Amita Bagga, Head of SMA Sapience, Bengaluru, India, Mr. Friedrich Birgelen, Deputy Consul General – German Consulate General Bangalore, Hariram Prabhakaran Head of Industry Solutions – Large Scale SMA Solar Technology AG, Kai Ludolph – Head of Project Engineering Services at SMA Solar Technology AG was present. Additionally, the event hosted Dr. Jai Asundi, Executive Director, Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy, Bangalore, and Mr. Idris Mohammed, Climate Change Advisor from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

Establishing the Global Competence Center in Bengaluru solidifies SMA Solar’s commitment to driving innovation in renewable energy and enhancing its service to global customers.

19, Oct 2023

Pluckk launches “Eat Good, Do Great” campaign with Kareena Kapoor Khan

Mumbai,19th October 2023:Pluckk, India’s pioneering lifestyle-oriented fresh food digital brand, known for revolutionizing the way Indians consume fresh fruits and vegetables, is making headlines with its groundbreaking campaign “Eat Good, Do Great.” Celebrated for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the brand has forged a dynamic partnership with none other than Kareena Kapoor Khan, a celebrity renowned for challenging industry norms. Together, they are set to inspire a new era of fresh, wholesome living through the “Eat Good, Do Great” campaign.

In the new brand film, Kareena Kapoor Khan enthusiastically announces her decision to take a much-needed break—specifically, a break from worrying about what her family eats. She attributes this newfound peace of mind to Pluckk, a name she trusts. This message is meant for busy homemakers and working women who often find themselves short on time for high-quality fresh food shopping. Kareena emphasizes that Pluckk’s1000+ farmers are dedicated to delivering safe, clean, and exceptionally fresh fruits and vegetables, eliminating the need for such concerns. She goes on to encourage viewers to grant themselves a well-deserved break from the monotony of traditional food choices and explore the vast array of options offered by Pluckk such as Exotics, Organic, Hydroponic, DIY Meal Kits, and more. As she aptly concludes, “Eat Good, Do Great.“

Unveiling the new brand campaign, Pratik Gupta, CEO & Co-Founder of Pluckk said, “The key goal of this campaign is to spread our message about consuming high-quality fruits & vegetables and enjoying what you eat. The differentiation we have built with Traceability to know your farmer &Ozone- Washed for safer eating,coupled with our innovative products really sets us apart in the market. We make it easy for the modern Indian consumer to improve their lifestyle choices by allowing them to browse & purchase by food and health trends which has made a real difference in their lives. Kareena being a mother herself, is the perfect ambassador to spread our message of Eat Good. Do Great to all Indian families”

On this exciting partnership, Kareena Kapoor Khan mentioned, “Pluckk is a brand that I personally relate to and believe in. This campaign captures very well what Pluckk is solving – providing Indian families with the highest quality. With their unique innovations like Traceability & Ozone-Washed, I can now trace my produce back to the farmer and get the added benefit of eating fresher & safer. Pluckk’s product range keeps everyone in my family excited and engaged around fruits and vegetables. There is always something new to discover on Pluckk with their exciting categories like exotic fruits, stuffed veggies, salads &DIY meal kits. It really is time to Eat Good. Do Great”

19, Oct 2023

BITS Pilani Shifting Narrative from Highest to Median package to Foster Healthier Learning Environment

India, 19th October 2023: BITS Pilani, a renowned institution known for its commitment to innovation is taking a significant step towards inculcating a healthier academic environment. Starting this academic year, BITS Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad campuses have decided not to publicize their highest placement package. Instead, these campuses will focus on highlighting the average or median packages their graduates secure. This resolution stems from BITS Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ramgopal Rao’s perspective of addressing the enduring concerns among students and parent community about the unhealthy competition created by such monetary disclosures. This decision also aligns with BITS Pilani’s unwavering commitment to fostering a well-rounded and inclusive learning environment.

Shifting the narrative from the highest package to the median or average, will enable BITS Pilani to reduce the undue pressure that often accompanies the race for the highest salaries. At these BITS campuses in the AY2022-23 the domestic median salary has risen to 18 lakhs, a growth of 12% over the last AY 2021-22. The average domestic salary grew to reach 20.74 lakhs, a growth of 11 % over the last academic year, along with this the minimum salary also rose by 17% over the last year. Another important aspect has been the increase of 10% in the number of unique companies which have visited the campus this year for placements.

Speaking on the initiative, BITS Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ramgopal Rao said, “Recent incidents underscore the dire consequences of an excessively competitive environment and the need for changing the current landscape of higher education in India. BITS Pilani acknowledges that while striving for excellence is important, it should not come at the cost of mental health and well-being. This paradigm aligns with institute’s comprehensive mission to provide an education that prepares students not only for their careers but also for a fulfilling and a balanced life beyond the campus walls. Also, other similar institutions of such rich legacy and repute need to be aware of the impact of their practices on the mental and emotional well-being of the students. They must be willing to adapt and evolve, taking proactive measures to create an environment that fosters growth, learning, and, most importantly, the overall well-being of their students.”

The dire need for the country, as also outlined in the 2020 National Education Policy, is increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in our higher educational institutions from the current ~27% to 50% in the next decade. This requires exploring options of developing many new educational institutions into better quality ones in addition to increasing the student count in existing high quality institutions. Keeping this in mind, BITS is in the process of augmenting its physical infrastructure in the coming years to reach a total student enrolment of 25000 in all of its campuses. This strategic endeavor is poised to position BITS Pilani institutions uniquely, as they strive to offer top-tier education at a significant scale.

19, Oct 2023

Infrastructure advancement attracting real estate investments in Boisar

Boisar is predominantly characterized as a mid-segment locality, with residential apartments accounting for nearly 80% of the inventory. Around 60% of these residential units are 1 BHK apartments, while the majority of the remaining flats are 2 BHK units. The neighborhood primarily exhibits the greatest demand for 1 BHK apartments, resulting in a commendable annual rental yield of 4% for investors.

In the vast expanse of Mumbai’s real estate market, Boisar is emerging as a beacon of potential destination, ready for significant expansion and transformation. This vital location between Mumbai and Gujarat is undergoing a spectacular transformation, powered by massive infrastructure upgrades. These improvements are not only improving connectivity but also altering the area’s economic landscape, making Boisar an appealing possibility for both investors and homebuyers.

“The infrastructure upgrades in Boisar represent more than just improved connectivity; they represent a significant shift in the region’s economic landscape,” Mr. Prashant Khandelwal – CEO, Agami remarked of the development. “Boisar is on the verge of undergoing a transformation, making it an excellent choice for real estate investments. These projects will open up hitherto unseen possibilities, resulting in a thriving and sustainable community,” adds Mr. Khandelwal.

Boisar and the Bullet Train Revolution

One of the most significant factors changing Boisar’s future is its inclusion in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. The introduction of this high-speed rail line promises to revolutionise connectivity, crossing the gap between Boisar and key centres like BKC, Thane, and Virar in under 35 minutes. This quantum increase in transit infrastructure is projected to spark a real estate boom, making Boisar an alluring destination for property investors and enterprises searching for strategic positions.

The Mumbai-Delhi Expressway: A Lifeline for Boisar’s Growth

The Mumbai-Delhi Expressway. is another critical project determining Boisar’s future. This broad roadway not only improves travel but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth along its path. Boisar, which is strategically located along this motorway, will gain greatly. Because of the enhanced road connection, businesses are flocking to the area, making it an excellent alternative for individuals looking for active investment prospects.

Enhanced Rail Connectivity: The Virar-Dahanu Section

The ongoing four-lining of the Virar-Dahanu railway stretch strengthens Boisar’s appeal. This project will improve rail connectivity, making Boisar more accessible to both commuters and companies. The free flow of people and commodities is projected to boost the region’s economic prospects, attracting new investments and contributing to its growth.

Vadhavan Port: Propelling Industrial Growth

The impending Vadhavan Port, which is set to become India’s third-largest port, is set to change Boisar’s economic landscape. This ambitious initiative is expected to boost industrial growth in Boisar by attracting significant investment and creating a plethora of job possibilities. As industrial activity increases, the need for housing and commercial space in Boisar is expected to rise, making it a prime location for real estate investments.

Coastal Road Extension: Linking Boisar to Progress

The extension of the Mumbai-Virar route to Palghar via the Coastal route is a key milestone for local connectivity. As a result of being a part of this development, Boisar now has better access to neighbouring areas. This improved connectivity not only benefits locals but also increases the region’s attractiveness to businesses and investors, boosting economic growth in Boisar even further.

Boisar’s Industrial Prowess: An Employment Magnet

Boisar’s reputation as a well-developed industrial centre precedes it. With over 1500 industrial units producing everything from steel to plastic, Boisar has become a magnet for job seekers. The presence of Maharashtra’s largest MIDC and the Tarapur Atomic Power Station highlights the area’s economic prowess, boosting demand for homes and business facilities.

Price Appreciation: Boisar’s Bright Future

Property values are set to rise significantly as Boisar’s infrastructure undergoes a dramatic change. The incorporation of Boisar into the bullet train network, as well as its strategic site along the Mumbai-Delhi Motorway and other significant initiatives, ensure a promising future for real estate investors. According to industry experts, these developments will catalyse economic growth, making Boisar a focal point of development in the Mumbai metropolitan region.

Finally, Boisar’s real estate market is seeing a revival, fueled by creative infrastructural initiatives that promise to change the city’s future.

19, Oct 2023

Newest Ransomware Trend: Attackers Move Faster with Partial Encryption

On Wednesday morning, May 3, 2023, security personnel with the City of Dallas were horrified when their security software alerted them that they had likely become the target of a ransomware attack. Multiple servers across a range of departments were affected: 911 dispatchers, courts, and police services couldn’t use their computers for days.

It later emerged that sensitive data had been stolen—800,000 files containing full names, home addresses, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and the health and insurance data of at least 30,000 city employees and other individuals. Two weeks later, the Royal ransomware group, which took responsibility for the attack, threatened to release the information. In particular, police officers and others whose data had been stolen feared the data could fall into the hands of violent offenders who might try to retaliate.

The City of Dallas wasn’t the first government to be hit by ransomware—or the first ransomware attack where lives could have been lost. The Royal ransomware group was originally part of the Conti group, which previously took credit for bringing the entire Irish healthcare system to a halt in 2021.

One of the reasons Royal was able to strike so quickly and effectively in Dallas is that they took advantage of today’s fastest-growing ransomware trend: partial encryption.

The term “partial encryption” may sound more benign at first than traditional attack strategies, since theoretically less damage is being done. However, in fact, it’s no less devastating to organizations that find themselves under attack.

In this post, we’ll explore the emergence of partial encryption as a strategy to make cybercrime even more profitable, which industries are at risk, and finally, a few key steps to help you protect your business.

Why Do Attackers Choose Partial Encryption for Ransomware Attacks?

Encryption is a tried and true strategy for malware actors. Malware within the victims’ systems leaves their data in place but completely inaccessible. Attackers then demand a price to unlock the data so victims can resume business as usual. In a second-tier strategy, in the event that victims refuse to pay, attackers can still make money by selling the compromised data.

Based on this model, ransomware has become big business over the last decades. And like all big businesses, attackers are always seeking to optimize their operations and find more efficient, cost-effective ways to achieve the same or better results.

Encryption in particular can be very time-consuming, especially for large amounts of data. This has led attackers to seek more efficient, effective ways to render victims’ data inaccessible unless they pay the ransom.

Partial encryption, also known as intermittent encryption, has emerged as just one example of increasingly sophisticated attack tactics, often in readily available off-the-shelf ransomware products that are openly sold on the darkweb much like traditional software.

Rather than encrypt the entire compromised system, partial encryption does just that: It encrypts a portion of the victim’s files either at random, encrypting a predetermined percentage of the data, as Royal ransomware does, or encrypting only the most important files, as determined by fingerprinting: financial documents, photos, and personal information. Ransomware can also selectively encrypt files related to a particular project or task, bringing it to its knees until payment is made.

For attackers, the advantages of partial encryption over complete encryption are clear:

Speed– Faster and less resource-intensive than traditional encryption, attackers can finish partial encryption before victims even notice the intrusion.
Complexity– Because only some data is encrypted, it’s harder for victims to restore data from backups, increasing the odds that they will simply pay the ransom.
Less detectable- Automated scanners might not notice the smaller-scale modifications made by partial encryption while compromised systems may not behave as erratically as completely encrypted systems, triggering fewer alerts. Royal ransomware is particularly insidious because it not only uses partial encryption but also a multithreaded model, another increasingly popular strategy. In a single attack, there is only one ransomware process; a multithreaded attack uses multiple CPU cores to encrypt files simultaneously. This can quickly overwhelm the available processing power and make the attack more difficult to stop; even if one or two child processes can be stopped, the others will continue to encrypt files. This means that multithreaded ransomware attacks can be very destructive.

Even more frightening, today’s attackers have begun using a “triple extortion” strategy. With a double extortion strategy, as previously described, attackers not only hold the encrypted drives for ransom, they threaten to release or sell encrypted data if the organization does not pay. For the victim, this means that even if files can be restored from a backup, they must still pay to avoid data leakage.

However, a triple extortion strategy unfolds, as the name suggests, over three stages:

Infiltrate and encrypt. Attacker profits when the initial victim pays the ransom.
Exfiltrate and threaten to sell. Attacker can profit from the sale of data.
Ransom third parties. Attacker demands ransom from third parties whose data has been stolen, such as patients or employees; they may also threaten the organization or its partners with distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

However, whether ransomware attackers use one of these new strategies or a more traditional approach, the goal is always the same: to extort money. And the truth is that even after paying up, few organizations can reconstruct 100% of their compromised data.

Therefore, the best defense against today’s ransomware is thwarting attacks altogether.

Who Are the Attackers?

When combating ransomware, it’s important to understand who you’re up against. Today’s ransomware attackers are far from the stereotypical hooded criminal-in-a-basement, although that may have been who was behind very early ransomware, 10 to 15 years ago. Attackers back then would use broad-scale, fairly obvious, and generally imprecise attacks that succeeded in bringing in small amounts of money.

Today, like all technology industries, ransomware has matured beyond these modest origins. Ransomware gangs have formed larger-scale enterprises and brought talented developers on board to research and implement increasingly sophisticated techniques, methods deployed against wealthier targets to reap the highest rewards.

And these illicit enterprises have found safe havens in places like Russia, Asia, and Eastern Europe. Today, in addition to these large and highly professional enterprises, hostile governments and other nation-state entities are using ransomware for nation-level intelligence-gathering operations. And beyond literal warfare, ransomware has become a powerful digital weapon in corporate warfare as well.

There are numerous hacking groups out there, but a few leading ones deserve a mention.

Chernovite – A likely nation-state group and the developer of Pipedream, U.S. law enforcement has called this modular industrial control system (ICS) toolset a “Swiss army knife” for attacking utility companies (electricity, water, natural gas) in the U.S. and Europe.
Bentonite – An opportunistic group affiliated with Iranian hacking groups Phosphorus and Nemesis Kitten, Bentonite leverages known vulnerabilities in maritime oil and gas, government, and manufacturing infrastructure.
ALPHV/BlackCat– BlackCat is a relatively new ransomware group that popped up in late 2022. It is known for its sophisticated encryption and ability to target a wide range of organizations. It is believed BlackCat is operated by a group of Russian-speaking cybercriminals and is known to use intermittent encryption via customizable byte-skipping patterns.
Hive– Before being brought down by the U.S. FBI, German law enforcement, and the Dutch National High-Tech Crime Unit, this ransomware group had extorted over $100M by terrorizing healthcare organizations, schools, and public infrastructure worldwide. While the investigation is ongoing, Hive is believed to have ties to the Kremlin.

Attacks

In just the first half of 2023, 48 ransomware groups including these and others—such as Ryuk, Medusa, Play, LockBit3, and many more—have breached over 2,200 victims, 45% of whom are in the U.S.

These groups use two main vectors to introduce ransomware: through software vulnerabilities, which are unintentional weaknesses or flaws in applications or code libraries that can go unpatched for years, and social engineering techniques, such as phishing. Attacks often combine these two strategies, or use variations such as callback phishing attacks, which are commonly used by the Royal ransomware group, the group behind the Dallas attack.

Regardless of how individual groups operate, and which encryption technologies they’re using, the consequences can be dire, as in an August 2023 ransomware attack on two Danish cloud hosting companies that resulted in the total loss (to encryption) of all customer data. An unidentified attack group demanded 6 bitcoins in ransom (approx $155,000 as of this writing), an amount CloudNordic was unable to pay; the company has since shut down its operations.

What Industries Are Most at Risk?

There are several sectors that find themselves frequently targeted by ransomware attacks.

Healthcare– Medical IT departments are both the most obvious and the most sensitive target since lives are most clearly on the line. When the Rhysida ransomware group, which had gained notoriety for its attack on the Chilean army, attacked Prospect Medical in August of 2023, the company—which operates 16 hospitals and numerous clinics all over the U.S.—was forced to use paper charts until systems could be restored. Healthcare data is both sensitive and valuable; it also features a large threat surface and a wide range of device types, including a mix of old and new technologies. This type of environment is hard to securely administer and update. This is especially true of medical IoT devices, which are often not built securely by design. Finally, healthcare organizations are historically more likely to pay ransoms compared with other industries, specifically so that life-saving operations will not be interrupted. The year 2022 brought an average of 1,426 attempted breaches per week per organization in the healthcare industry, a 78% year-over-year increase. There was also a distinct uptick in mortality following a cyber attack, although attributing deaths directly to ransomware is almost impossible due to the complexity of the events involved. Deaths connected with ransomware attacks can come about due to slowdowns, meaning delays in important surgeries and other care, as well as a lack of electronic health records, leading to a higher chance that patients will be given the wrong medication or an incorrect dose. In a recent Ponemon study of healthcare IT professionals, almost half (45%) said ransomware led to increased complications from medical procedures, up from 36% just a year earlier.

Higher Education– Just as school was starting back in September of 2021, Howard University, one of the U.S.’s five largest historically black colleges and universities, was forced to cancel classes due to a ransomware attack. Attacks against higher education institutions are on the rise, with at least eight reporting ransomware attacks since December 2022. Why are attackers targeting these schools? Colleges and universities are seen as attractive targets because they hold valuable data and their IT departments are often understaffed and outdated, with limited security resources. Educational institutions are also considered slower to recover than other sectors. Despite the fact that 64% of higher education institutions experienced attacks in the past year, many are still unwilling to discuss these incidents due to the negative influence they may have on a school’s reputation. Unfortunately, because of this silence, others in the sector may not realize that they are at risk—further perpetuating the cycle.

Manufacturing– In February of 2023, MKS Instruments, a little-known U.S.-based supplier to major players in the semiconductor industry, woke up to every manufacturer’s worst nightmare: a ransomware attack. Hackers compromised production and business systems, leading to predictions of $200M in losses from the attack. But the worst may be yet to come: Employees have filed a class action suit, claiming that the company did not adequately protect their sensitive personal data. Attacks on semiconductor companies have continued: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) itself, the world’s largest chip manufacturer, was hit by the LockBit ransomware group in June 2023. The group demanded $70M, adding: “In the case of payment refusal, also will be published points of entry into the network and passwords and logins company.” But the semiconductor sector is not alone; almost every major field of manufacturing is being targeted. In fact, the manufacturing sector has been the industry most heavily hit by ransomware. The primary vector is unpatched vulnerabilities, particularly in industrial control systems. Manufacturers may also be more likely to pay ransoms to avoid production disruptions and financial losses, as well as devastating repercussions up and down the supply chain.

Tips to Protect Your Business From Today’s Sophisticated Ransomware

Although these three industries are among the most frequently targeted, attacks like the one in Dallas, the cloud providers in Denmark, and other victims profiled above reveal the broader truth that any organization storing sensitive data is at risk today, from financial services and insurance to retail and logistics.

That’s especially true now, with partial encryption likely to increase in popularity as ransomware gangs study one another’s techniques. As more and more adopt this hyperefficient technique, they will find it easier and more effective than ever to steal your assets and avoid interception. So regardless of your industry, now is the time to take a few important steps to protect your organization from ransomware.

Inventory Assets– All comprehensive security strategies begin with a comprehensive assessment of what you need to protect, including OT assets that may be the weakest link in your organization.
Stay on Guard 24/7– When it comes to ransomware attacks, hackers usually take advantage of times when people are not as vigilant. In the past year, most breaches have occurred on weekends and holidays.
Patch, Patch, Patch– Keep up to date with a rigorous patching regimen, since known vulnerabilities are a popular attack vector. Also, automate patching wherever possible.
Watch for Pre-Ransomware– Trojan malware infections like Trickbot, Emotet, Dridex, and Cobalt Strike should be dealt with immediately, as these can all be used to let ransomware in the door; similarly, taking steps to prevent phishing and train users can help foster a culture of security.
Get Backed Up– Store multiple copies of data in different locations (cloud, on-premises, and physical locations), and establish a backup testing regimen. Remember, never attach an uninfected backup to an infected computer. This could spread the ransomware to the backup and make it impossible to recover your data.
Minimize the Blast Zone – Reduce the impact of a potential attack with security measures such as strong user authentication and network segmentation to limit the radius of an attack’s spread.
It is important to note that none of these measures can provide complete protection. And particularly in light of the fact that partial encryption is notoriously difficult to detect, your best bet is a comprehensive anti-ransomware solution.
Check Point Harmony: The Industry’s Best Prevention

The best way to keep your organization safe is effective threat prevention with an organization-wide anti-ransomware solution that uses up-to-the-minute threat intelligence data along with advanced algorithms that work automatically in the background, around the clock.

Check Point Harmony is the first unified security solution that protects users, devices, and internet connections from the most sophisticated attacks, including phishing, zero-day ransomware, and more. It also ensures that users only have access to the applications they need, which helps reduce the risk of data breaches.

Check Point Harmony delivers peace of mind with a total, holistic defense against malware:

Constantly monitors for ransomware-specific behavior
Detects threats fast so teams can act quickly to minimize harm
Identifies illegitimate file encryption; signature-less to detect new attack types
Uses forensic analysis to detect and quarantine all elements of a ransomware attack
Automatically restores encrypted files from snapshots to ensure business continuity

Check Point Harmony is prevention-focused, stopping attacks before they become a threat to your organization. Powered by

real-time threat intelligence through Check Point’s ThreatCloud AI and backed by the industry-leading Check Point Research

team, Check Point Harmony gives you today’s best security, hands down.

19, Oct 2023

Chai Sutta Bar Expands its Chai and Beverage Delights to the World Cup Spectators in Dharamshala

New Delhi, 19th October 2023 – Chai Sutta Bar, the largest tea chain globally renowned for its unique concept and authentic tea experiences, is proud to announce the grand opening of five new kiosks in 5 Matches at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, India, just in time for the prestigious World Cup matches. The kiosks will offer a delightful range of chai, cold coffee, and sandwiches to enhance the match-watching experience for fans.

Chai Sutta Bar, founded in 2016 by Anubhav Dubey and Anand Nayak, has quickly become the largest tea chain in the world. With its humble beginnings in Indore, the company was established with a simple yet powerful idea – to serve the most consumed beverage in India, chai (Tea), in a contemporary and inviting setting. Over the years, Chai Sutta Bar has emerged as the go-to destination for youngsters seeking the perfect environment to unwind and savor a cup of chai.

With an astonishing daily output of 4.5 lakh kulhad teas, Chai Sutta Bar has successfully carved a niche in the hearts of its customers, offering not just a cup of chai but an experience. The brand has experienced remarkable growth and now boasts a turnover of over 150 crores, with more than outlets spread across 300+ cities in India.

The decision to expand to the iconic HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala is a testament to Chai Sutta Bar’s commitment to serving quality beverages in unique and high-energy environments. This expansion aligns perfectly with the company’s vision to make its offerings accessible to diverse audiences nationwide.

Chai Sutta Bar would like to clarify that its name, although suggestive of smoking and a bar, does not promote using harmful substances. The organization is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle and works closely with local authorities in the areas where its outlets are situated to contribute positively to society.

The five new kiosks at HPCA Stadium are not just places to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink but an extension of the warm and friendly Chai Sutta Bar experience.

Anubhav Dubey, Co-Founder and CEO of Chai Sutta Bar, expressed his excitement about the new venture, saying, “We are thrilled to be a part of the World Cup fever in Dharamshala. Chai Sutta Bar has always been about offering an experience, and we aim to make every match memorable for the spectators with our authentic chai, cold coffee, and delectable sandwiches.”

Anand Nayak, Co-Founder of Chai Sutta Bar said – ‘’Chai Sutta Bar’s journey has always been about love for chai and the shared experience of enjoying it with others. We’re honored to extend our warm and inviting atmosphere to the cricket-loving community in Dharamshala during the World Cup. Our promise is to elevate your match-watching experience, one sip at a time’’.

Chai Sutta Bar invites all cricket enthusiasts and chai lovers attending the World Cup matches in Dharamshala to drop by and experience the joy of sipping their favorite beverages while watching their favorite teams in action.

19, Oct 2023

Qoruz Diwali 2023 Report: Harnessing The Power of Influencer Marketing in India’s Rs.90,000 Crore Festive Market

Bengaluru, October 19, 2023: As the spirit of Diwali spreads across the country, brands find themselves in a bustling market worth a staggering ₹90,000 crore, filled with promising opportunities. Today, Qoruz, the leading influencer marketing platform, unveils its comprehensive Diwali 2023 Report, revealing the interplay between consumers and influencers.

The report provides valuable insights into the impact of influencer marketing on brand promotion during the festive season.

Key Highlights

Collaboration Trends: Over the past two years, there has been a remarkable 21% increase in influencer collaborations, reflecting the strengthening of partnerships between brands and influencers. Brands today allocate over ~₹300 crore for influencer marketing during the festive season.

Engagement with Influencers: A staggering 80% of Diwali shoppers actively engage with influencer-led content, reaffirming influencers’ central role in shaping consumer preferences. Influencer marketing is 1.5x effective on millennials as compared to other age groups like boomers and Gens X and Z.

Changing Consumer Behaviours: Over the past decade Indian e-commerce has grown by 20x, with a 15x jump in annual transacting user base. This figure spikes during Diwali, with 45% of shoppers anticipating increasing their online spending this festive season.

Geographical Breakup: 50 million e-commerce buyers come from tier 2 cities and lower, while the remaining 25 million are from the nation’s metros.

Diwali Influencer Campaigns – A Sector-wise Breakdown

The largest influencer marketing spends sector-wise comes from personal care at 20% followed by food & beverage at 16%. Despite this, mobile phones have seen the largest growth in spends during Diwali, up 48% in 2022 compared to 2021.

Food: Food Influencers from tier 2 & 3 cities have outperformed their tier 1 counterparts. Nano influencers recorded a remarkable 9.49% engagement rate during Diwali 2022.

Home Décor: Bengaluru emerges as the hub for successful home décor influencer campaigns, with nano influencers boasting an impressive 9.09% engagement rate.

Fashion: Fashion brands experience heightened engagement, particularly through micro and nano influencers. During Diwali 2022, nano influencers achieved an impressive engagement rate of 7.1%, surpassing their macro and mega counterparts, whose engagement sat at 1.2 and 1.1% respectively.

Emphasising the significance of this report, Praanesh Bhuvaneswar, Co-Founder and CEO at Qoruz, said, “In the dynamic world of influencers, our Diwali 2023 Report underscores the pivotal role of influencer marketing, especially during the festive season. Influencers are poised to be the next significant evolution in the marketing industry. With their innovative thinking and capacity to influence consumer choices, no brand can overlook the impact of influencers. At Qoruz, we’re proud to lead the way in facilitating these connections.”

Marketing Strategies for Brands to Win Diwali

Influencer collaborations have seen a 21% increase during Diwali over the last two years. This has culminated in more than 67,000 posts across a network of 22,000 influencers, amassing total engagements of 5.3 million and 3.7 million video views.

Influencer-led content not only resonates with consumers but also garners their trust through authenticity.
A significant 66% of Diwali shoppers make purchasing decisions based on influencer recommendations.
User-generated content (UGC) greatly influences 79% of purchasing decisions, underscoring the value of authentic customer relationships.
Regional language campaigns are effective, as 53% of Diwali shoppers prefer content in their regional language, highlighting the importance of linguistic relevance.
The maximum impact is achieved through a combination of paid advertisements and influencer campaigns. However, choosing the right influencer for Diwali campaigns is crucial.

“Content marketing through the consumer’s device-agnostic journey will be critical, and in the upcoming festive season, mobile and moment marketing should be a key focus therein. Second, influencers are considered primarily for mid-funnel marketing. However, considering the breakthrough in the creator economy, and related consumer behaviour , this festive season brands can explore a full-funnel influencer strategy to maximise ROI”, shared Chaaya Baradhwaaj, Founder, Managing Director, BC Web Wise.

Commenting on the importance of choosing the right influencer partners, Sooraj Balakrishnan, Head of Marketing, Acer, said, “In the dynamic world of influencers, authenticity stands out. Brands must forge genuine connections, ensuring shared values with influencers. A collective of micro-influencers often resonates more profoundly than a single celebrity, particularly during festive times.”

In India’s evolving digital landscape,the ongoing rise of online shopping is set to be transformed by influencer marketing, becoming an integral part of the festive shopping experience for years to come.

19, Oct 2023

Makoons Play School Expands its Reach with a New Centre in NIT Faridabad, Haryana

Makoons Play School, India’s fastest-growing preschool franchise, is pleased to announce the opening of its newest centre at 5k/24A NIT Faridabad, Haryana. There were a number of distinguished guests present for the inauguration ceremony, including BJP MLA Seema Trikha, who served as the chief guest. The local community also participated with enthusiasm.

Makoons Play School is dedicated to giving the smallest minds a nurturing environment where holistic learning takes centre stage. Business partner Bir Pratap expressed his delight at the opening by saying, “We are thrilled to open our new centre in NIT Faridabad,” during the ceremony. He also added, “This is not just a school; it’s a nurturing ground for the youngest minds, where we aim to provide a holistic learning environment.”

BJP MLA Seema Trikha, who served as the chief guest, congratulated Makoons Play School on its new endeavor and lauded the organisation for its dedication to early childhood education. She highlighted the importance of high-quality preschool education in the development of young children.

The local community has shown tremendous interest and enthusiasm for the new centre, highlighting the area’s high demand for quality preschool education. This enthusiastic response demonstrates the faith and assurance that parents have in Makoons Play School as a top provider of early childhood education.

The CEO and founder of Makoons Group of Schools, Vijay Kumar Agarwal, described his goals for the new facility by saying, “At Makoons, we believe in nurturing children’s innate curiosity and creativity, ensuring they have the best start in their educational journey. Our goal is to offer children all over India a top-notch early childhood education, and the opening of the NIT Faridabad centre is an important step in that direction.”

With the opening of the new location in NIT Faridabad, Makoons Play School hopes to expand its presence in Haryana and introduce new, creative educational initiatives designed to promote early childhood development. The franchise is committed to having a positive influence on the lives of young children and their families and to making sure that every child’s formative years are full of fun, adventure, and worthwhile learning opportunities.

19, Oct 2023

SAI International School Welcomes Asian Games Spear Master

Mumbai/Bhubaneswar, October 19, 2023 – SAI International School was honoured to host the distinguished Asian Games Silver Medallist, Shri Kishore Kumar Jena, who clinched glory in the javelin throw event at the recent Asian Games held in Hangzhou, Republic of China. The school campus buzzed with excitement as the celebrated athlete visited on October 17, 2023, to inspire the SAIoneers. His presence at the school was marked by a sense of camaraderie, a shared love for sports, and the belief that dedication and hard work lead to success. The SAIoneers were ecstatic to meet him and were eager to hear about his experiences at the Asian Games.

Shri Kishore Jena, a staunch believer of discipline, saying, “It’s an absolute pleasure to visit SAI International School. The sports infrastructure here is world-class, and I am immensely impressed by the school’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent.” On being asked about his experience with Asian Games, he expressed, “My win at the Asian Games Forum is like a stepping stone towards achieving perfection in the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Odisha Govt. and the state’s sports authorities for encouraging sports and progressively transforming Odisha into a national and international sports hub in the near future.”

Chairperson, SAI International, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, humbly expressed, “Shri Kishore Jena’s silver medal at the Asian Games is not just a victory for him but for the entire nation. At SAI International School, we believe in creating an environment where our students can thrive in both academics and sports. His visit to school is pivotal to our commitment to nurturing sporting talent and instilling the values of resilience and perseverance in our SAIoneers.”

SAIoneer, Ankita Mishra from Class XI, shared her experience of meeting Kishore Jena, saying, “Meeting Kishore Sir was a life-changing experience. His journey from a determined athlete to an Asian Games Silver Medallist has shown me the true meaning of perseverance. His words have ignited a fire within me, and his visit has been a turning point in my life.”

Shri Kishore Kumar Jena’s visit to SAI International School served as a reminder that sports and games are as an integral part of the student’s life as is academics. Focusing on developing & nurturing the budding athletes of today in a wide variety of sports will enrich India in its global footing of the athletic diaspora.