Living in a digital world has both advantages and disadvantages. While it offers us integrated global business, virtual services, AI, and financial inclusion, it also leads to privacy concerns, digital dependency and cyberbullying. 

Regarding cyber attacks, many people assume that such breaches happen with big companies only. In reality, everyone is vulnerable and in need of protection. Educational institutes like schools and colleges have finally started acknowledging this. 

It’s prudent for students to be enlightened about such issues. This is why it is important to create cybersecurity awareness among the school-going kids. Let’s dig in!

Why is Cybersecurity Awareness Critical for Students?

Let’s understand the meaning of cybersecurity before jumping straight to the importance of cybersecurity awareness for Indian students. Due to various technological developments, we rely a lot on digital services. 

From education and work to banking services, we have become increasingly dependent on the Internet. This has led to digital attacks and the need to create awareness around cybersecurity. There are many reasons why it’s important for the students.

•  It’s possible that security or data breach starts at a student level and goes on to spread on a bigger scale. They can spread malware to the school network leading to catastrophic damage.
• A phishing attack can compromise the academic records and the assignments submitted by students.
• A huge number of Gen Z and millennials globally have been victims of identity theft.
• Many schools are becoming a target of ransomware which can breach student’s privacy.
• Online platforms expose students to cyberbullying and scams.

How to Create Cybersecurity Awareness in India?

In 2024, India is said to be the second most cyber-attacked country in the world. Due to the destructive attack by the cyber criminals, Indians lost more than Rs. 1000 crores. According to recent reports on average, our country’s education sector experiences about 8,195 attacks per week. 

The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified these crimes since a large section of the population shifted to an online mode of learning. In such a situation, everyone needs to be aware of effective cybersecurity measures. Let’s take a look.

Password Security

The first and foremost step is to add strong and unique passwords. They work as the first line of defence against cyber crimes.

Secure Connections

Avoid the use of public Wi-Fi, especially if your online activity includes banking, adding login credentials or writing personal messages. Such sensitive information can get leaked when you are on a public connection.

Privacy Settings

If you are an avid social media user, make sure you review your privacy settings frequently. Keep control over your personal information like photos, phone numbers, house address and more.

Data Backup

Students should practice backing up their important data as they can be compromised due to cyberattacks. So make a copy of everything you deem important and update your antivirus software frequently. 

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

You must be aware of two-factor or multi-factor authentication passwords or codes. They work as an additional layer of security protection. They are different from usual passwords as MFA protects digital devices or information even when a password is compromised.

Safe Downloads

It is common for students to download files from untrusted sources and websites. These sources can contain malware. So beware of downloading such files.

Conclusion

After reading this write-up, you must have understood the need to work on cybersecurity awareness among students in India. They should be familiar with online safety, healthy digital habits, identification and prevention of threats. 

This is why K.R. Mangalam World School, CBSE School in Vikaspuri is committed to providing a digitally safe environment for the students. We prioritise cybersecurity as our aim is to prepare them for the future. Hence, safety, digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness are our paramount concerns. Join us!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cybersecurity awareness?

It’s the awareness and knowledge of protecting digital systems from cyber threats. It educates students to act responsibly and adopt safe internet practices.

Why do students need cybersecurity awareness?

There is a dire need for cybersecurity awareness among students as they are vulnerable to online risks. They can easily get caught up in phishing, identity theft and other online scams. 

What will happen in the absence of cybersecurity?

Without cybersecurity measures, both individuals and organisations can face cyberattacks, financial loss, data breaches, ransomware attacks and more.

What are some biggest cybersecurity challenges?

Some of the biggest cybersecurity challenges are ransomware, phishing, cloud attacks, supply chain attacks, social engineering, advanced persistent threats, etc.