A cyber-attack is any attempt to gain unauthorized access to a computer, computing system or computer network with the intent to cause damage. Cyber-attacks aim to disable, disrupt, destroy or control computer systems or to alter, block, delete, manipulate or steal the data held within these systems.
Impact of cross border cyber-attack:
1. It will have a debilitating impact on Critical Information Infrastructure (Power Plans, nuclear Plants, telecommunications etc.)
2. Cross border cyber-attacks can be used to threaten national security by indulging in contemporary forms of cross-border terrorism.
3. It can be used to disrupt social harmony through radicalization. Terrorists may use social media to plan and execute terror attacks and for virulent propaganda to incite hatred and violence, recruit youth and raise funds.
Defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks:
Institutional Measures.
1. National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC): to coordinate with different agencies at the national level.
2. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In): to issue alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats and countermeasures on a regular basis to various concerned agencies.
3. National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) has been established to deal with cyber security issues.
Legislative Measures.
1. Information Technology Act, 2000 to act as deterrent provision to deal with cyber threats and cyber-attacks.
2. The Indian security agencies need to be applauded for their continuous stonewalling of the attempts by our neighbours to breach the security of the government portals. However, the security apparatus needs to be more comprehensive keeping in view the evolving nature of threats.