Securing a knowledge based cyber world

Kashif A. Khan

Law desk (LD): In Bangladesh, as of 2015, we have 10 million active Internet users. Despite the number, we are yet to know of the security threats that lurk in the virtual world. Would you explain 'Cyber Security' in simple terms for us? What are the goals of Insight Bangladesh in that regard?

Kashif A. Khan (KAK): Security or protection of Information system is termed as Cyber Security. It's a robust word with in-depth meaning and understanding.  We (Insight Bangladesh Foundation- IBF) want to secure this cyber world with whatever knowledge and experience we have. We want to contribute to the nation through knowledge sharing & knowledge transfer in terms of public awareness, capacity development & policy-making.

LD: Is the existing Information and Communication Technology Act being effectively implemented in Bangladesh? Is it just enough for the challenges we come across?

KAK : Honestly speaking- No. But we have drafted a new law, which is under approval process. Once that is finalised then we should be able to combat most of the challenges. But again, practice makes a law perfect. Once the Act gets to be practiced often then some fine adjustments or amendments can be done to strengthen it.

LD: Recently, we have seen a rise in E-governance measures such as SIM card registration, IMEI registration, Smart Card etc. Would Insight Bangladesh comment on their aims and objectives?

KAK: We are very happy on this step of Government. Actually, we have been saying this for last 2 years through TV interviews, conferences and talkshows. Finally the implementations initiated. But again there will be challenges in doing it, like more than 70% duplicate or fake IMEI is there, so Government needs to take proper measures to allow those. Moreover, everyday thousands of fake IMEI entering market. It will be interesting to see how Governement  runs the process for long-term.

Actually, this process is very important on security aspects. For example, if a computer crime takes place then through Digital Forensic Investigation we can trace the IMEI/MAC address and thus it's essential to know the owner of that device.

LD: What are some of the conditioning or training programmes that Insight Bangladesh provides or has provided to Law Enforcement Agencies to tackle the challenges in Cyber Security?

KAK: Well, we have small Scale Digital Forensic Lab., our team & experts are always doing the RnD with tools & equipments to cater the challenges.

We have provided Law Enforcement with some training on tools & also supported them in investigation process.

LD: Often social media is at the hands of delinquents, who abuses its scope to promote false propoganda, debauchery or hate speech. What, in your suggestion, is an effective strategy to deal with this?

KAK: Awareness is the key. People using social media must know the etiquettes. Freedom of speech doesn't mean to malign image of others.

However, there are various tools to monitor social media activities & government has already formed Social Media Monitoring cell to combat these activities. Actually, nothing gets deleted or unnoticed in Cyber world; just we need proper tools & infrastructure with right people at right place.

LD: Is it the high time for Social media hubs such as Tweeter, Facebook and also payment gateway methods such as PayPal to recognise Bangladesh as a potential market? What are some of the benefits that might be availed if they choose to set up regional offices here in Bangladesh?

KAK: Yes, very true. But in that case Government needs to understand the threats & deal with individuals separately. Like our neighboring county, India have separate agreement with these bodies thus protecting privacy & information of the users.

LD: What are some of the available measures that a victim can take against his/her online abuser? Would you please share with us the services Insight Bangladesh provides in that regard?

KAK: First of all, don't share password/personal information/pictures with unknown, respect your own privacy and determine to what extent you will share your activities on Social Media even with freinds and family. Check privacy setting & security option; always keep software updated; don't accept friend requests from unknown; keep strong password & change frequently.

Actually IBF is non-profitable organizaton & provides one-stop solution for all cyber security needs. We also have ICT Lawyers to help victims.

You can call at our Help Desk (24/7) 01766678888 or visit: www.cybernirapotta.net.bd or www.insightbangladesh.org.bd