In a unique global engagement initiative, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) hosted a special interactive session for visiting journalists from Europe, the U.S., and Central Asia on 12 December 2025, giving them firsthand insights into India’s rapidly advancing digital security ecosystem.
The session, organised jointly with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was led by Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General, CERT-In, with opening remarks by Shri Krishan Kumar Singh, Joint Secretary, MeitY.
How CERT-In Protects India’s Digital Users
For everyday consumers and tech users, CERT-In plays a central role in keeping the digital environment safe. Dr. Bahl explained how the agency:
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Tracks new cyber threats across the internet
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Issues timely advisories for citizens and organisations
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Conducts vulnerability tests and audits
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Coordinates with global agencies on cyber emergencies
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Provides cybersecurity training and awareness programmes
CERT-In’s alerts often act as the first line of defence for millions of Indian users—especially as cyberattacks grow more frequent and sophisticated.
India’s Cybersecurity Boom: Startups, AI Tools & Skilled Workforce
Dr. Bahl highlighted the impressive growth of India’s cybersecurity landscape:
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400+ homegrown cybersecurity startups
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6.5 lakh+ trained professionals
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A $20 billion cybersecurity market
These innovators are designing advanced tools for AI-based threat detection, fraud prevention, cyber forensics, and secure digital infrastructure—many of which directly benefit Indian consumers and small businesses.
AI: The New Frontier of Cyber Defence
Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Bahl explained, is transforming cybersecurity globally. At CERT-In, AI systems now help:
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Spot abnormal digital behaviour
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Predict cyber risks before they strike
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Automate first-level incident responses
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Counter AI-powered attacks launched by cybercriminals
For consumers, this means faster alerts, better device protection, and more resilient digital services.
Global Partnerships & Noteworthy Cyber Reports
Journalists were also briefed on India’s expanding international partnerships, including:
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A collaborative AI cybersecurity risk report with France’s ANSSI
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Global cyber drills with international agencies
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CERT-In’s initiatives to protect cooperative banks and consumer devices from botnets and malware, recognized in the WEF’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025
India registered 147 ransomware attacks in 2024, but coordinated action by CERT-In helped limit large-scale consumer and enterprise impact.
MeitY’s Vision: AI Innovation & Consumer Protection
Joint Secretary Shri Krishan Kumar Singh highlighted:
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India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit 2026
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New R&D programmes supporting startups building indigenous cyber tools
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Efforts to enhance cyber awareness and safety among ordinary users
Cross-Border Dialogue on Digital Safety
The session concluded with an open conversation between Indian officials and foreign journalists on improving cyber cooperation globally—an essential step as cyber threats increasingly cross national boundaries.
For consumers, such global engagement strengthens India’s ability to protect digital payments, personal data, devices, and online services in a hyper-connected world.