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Feature

Whistle Blowing: An Investigative Tool

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaSeptember 27, 2023November 14, 2024028 mins

Col. Avijit Nandi (Retd.), Head-Integrated Risk Management & Investigation/ Fraud, MitKat Introduction Whistleblowing is not a new phenomenon as many thinks. The concept and its use have been there for ages. Two quotes below from Kautilya, the famous scholar and one of India’s most popular presidents Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam echo the sentiment. In fact, we turn whistle-blowers in our school, colleges, and even in our families. The only difference is the motive in each case. “Where do the evils like corruption arise from? It comes from the neverending greed. The fight for a corruption-free ethical society will have to be fought against this greed and replaced with ‘what can I give’ spirit” – Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Here we will broadly discuss ‘Whistle Blowing’ in the workplace. Every organisation encourages honest employees. Encouraging whistle-blowing in an organisation promotes transparent, clear, and effective communication means. An ethical person who thinks of the betterment of the society and organisation he serves will resort to whistle-blowing. Whistle-blowing in recent years has gained huge prominence since in the global competitive market, a company’s effort to be ahead in the race cut corners illegally, which gets reported. There have been instances of huge and big whistle-blowing by the employees against the companies. There are seven dimensions of organisation culture that can influence the employees to be a whistleblower. “Any witness who supplies data about extortion and on the off chance that he/ she prevails with regards to demonstrating it will get the reward of onesixth of the sum being referred to; or if the source is an administration worker, he/ she might get one-twelfth of the sum for a similar demonstration” – Kautilya Vigilance. Engagement. Credibility. Accountability. Empowerment. Courage. Option. Who is a Whistleblower? A whistleblower is a person, often an employee but also can be a supplier, vendor, or any third party, who reveals information about activity within a private or public organization that is deemed illegal, immoral, illicit, unsafe, or fraudulent. Study shows there are four type of factors that can influence a whistleblower’s intention to conduct whistleblowing, namely – pressure/ incentives, opportunity, rationalization, and capability. Types of Whistleblowers The need for effective whistle-blowing systems The value of whistle-blowing cannot be overstated. Studies have shown ‘the single most important way in which wrongdoing was brought to light in public sector organizations’ was employee whistle blowing. There is accordingly no doubt that more needs to be done by legislators as well as public and private entities to encourage whistle-blowing and related reports of corruption – to handle reports of alleged corruption, wrongdoing and undue risks in a sound manner; and to provide appropriate levels of protection for whistle-blowers. Whistle-blowing systems can be more successful if they provide a combination of reporting channels (e.g., directly to specific trusted persons, via a telephone hotline, or through an online channel, or an app); if the authorities make a point of communicating with whistle-blowers throughout the investigation process to maintain trust (a failure to be responsive may give rise to a perception that the wrongdoing is being covered up or that the investigation is not serious); and if information from reports is connected with information from other sources (such as surveys and audits). For that reason, supporting whistleblowing inside the organszation may be highly beneficial for companies. If misconduct is reported, the perpetrators can be stopped, and more importantly, the damage their actions have caused can be mitigated or even prevented. It is often hard for employees to decide to report misconduct. We will explore in detail different reasons employees fail to report transgressions. This does not mean that companies should be discouraged, as there are ways for them to encourage whistleblowing. It starts with implementing an anonymous whistleblowing system and making it a big part of the company’s culture. We will analyse different options, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to begin implementing them. Encouraging people to speak up and expose wrongdoing is a major factor in fighting fraud, corruption and unethical behaviour. The mere presence of a whistleblowing system may be enough to put people off committing any illegitimate activity, thus significantly reducing the risk of fraud. Take a look at six crucial benefits that whistleblowing can bring to any organisation: Helps combat fraud. Avoids reputational damage. Prevents issues escalating. Reduces losses. Raises awareness. Creates an open culture. Barriers to whistle-blowing According to research, whistleblowing is beneficial for companies. For example, companies that receive a higher number of whistleblowing reports tend to have a plethora of positive outcomes such as a 46% decrease in negative news coverage or a 2.8% increase in return on assets to mention a few. However, this study found that 56% of employees chose not to report misconduct. Other studies show even more alarming numbers. One EU study found out that 81% of Europeans did not report the corruption even when they were aware of whistleblowing is beneficial for companies, but employees tend not to report misconduct. To be able to provide the solution, we first need to understand the problem. Why don’t people report misconduct more often? Barriers on the employer’s side One of the most prominent obstacles to the introduction of whistleblowing in companies is the negative perception by managers. Whistleblowing is perceived less as an improvement tool and more as telling on someone. Culture plays a role in this perception. For example, in the US, employees are three times more likely to report than in Europe. Also, the United Kingdom has the highest reporting rates in Europe. Additionally, managers often believe that there is no need for a reporting system as they have an open company culture that nurtures whistleblowing. However, the data paints a different picture. A survey by the consulting company EY found that 56% of those who witnessed misconduct in the company did not report it. However, 73% of these people reported that they would consider reporting to an external party, such as a lawyer. Barriers on the employees’ side…

Latest

ASIS New Delhi, India Chapter Wins the I.B. Hale Chapter of the Year Award

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaSeptember 25, 2023November 14, 202401 mins

The ASIS New Delhi, India Chapter #207 has won this year’s I.B. Hale Chapter of the Year Award from ASIS International, the world’s leading membership organisation for security management professionals, along with ASIS Chapters from Jamaica, North Texas, Buenos Aires, Argentina (Honourable Mention), Phoenix (Honourable Mention) and the United Kingdom (Honourable Mention). “This award is not just recognition of our achievements, but also a reflection of the collaborative spirit and dedication of our chapter members. As we continue to strive for excellence, we look forward to even more remarkable accomplishments in the future.” This award recognizes outstanding chapters that provide security practitioners timely and relevant resources, thus helping promote excellence in the security management profession worldwide. Chapters are recognized for their proficiency at sharing knowledge, best practices, and peer-to-peer connections that give ASIS International members a means to succeed personally and professionally.

Latest

CAPSI to Evolve New National Security Culture: Strengthening Internal Security & Democracy

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaSeptember 25, 2023November 14, 202417 mins

Kunwar Vikram Singh, Chairman Central Association of Private Security Industry The Central Association of Private Security Industry shall be initiating a national movement to evolve a New National Security Culture so that People of Bharat live and prosper in the most secure environments. As have reasons to believe that In today’s evolving world, the importance of national security cannot be overstated. As threats become more diverse and complex, it is imperative that nations cultivate a robust national security culture. This document highlights the need for a new national security culture to bolster internal security and strengthen democracy at all levels. Furthermore, it explores the role of civil society in effectively engaging in a national movement to ensure that citizens embrace and follow the principles of national security culture. 1. Understanding National Security Culture National security culture refers to the shared values, norms, attitudes, and behaviors that promote the protection and preservation of a nation’s security interests. It encompasses a broad range of aspects such as national defense, law enforcement, intelligence gathering, emergency preparedness, and counterterrorism measures. 2. The Importance of a New National Security Culture: Protecting Internal Security: A well-developed national security culture is crucial for safeguarding a nation’s internal security. It ensures that citizens are aware of potential threats and are committed to supporting and cooperating with security agencies to address these challenges effectively. Strengthening Democracy: National security culture and democracy go hand in hand. A strong national security culture strengthens democracy by ensuring the rule of law, protecting individual rights and liberties, promoting transparency, and maintaining public trust in security institutions. 3. Engaging Civil Society in the National Movement: Raising Awareness: Civil society organizations play a vital role in disseminating information and raising awareness about the importance of national security culture. They can organize workshops, seminars, and public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about national security risks, challenges, and the need for collective action. Promoting Civic Education: Civil society can work closely with educational institutions to incorporate national security education into the curriculum. By fostering civic education, citizens will develop a deeper understanding of their role in national security and the significance of democratic values. Collaboration with Security Institutions: Civil society organizations can actively engage with security institutions to bridge the gap between citizens and the security apparatus. This collaboration fosters trust, transparency, and accountability. Regular meetings, forums, and consultations with civil society representatives can enable citizens to contribute their perspectives and expertise to national security policymaking. Encouraging Active Citizenship: Civil society can encourage citizens to actively participate in democracy by advocating for accountable governance, providing feedback on security policies, and reporting suspicious activities. Engaging citizens as active stakeholders cultivates a sense of ownership and responsibility in maintaining national security. 4. Ensuring National Security Culture is Embodied and Followed Legislative Measures: Governments can enact legislation that promotes and reinforces national security culture. This includes laws that protect whistleblowers, ensure citizen privacy rights, and provide legal frameworks for counterterrorism efforts while safeguarding fundamental rights and civil liberties. Transparency and Accountability: Security institutions should exhibit transparent practices and be accountable to citizens. Regular reporting on their activities, public audits, and mechanisms for citizen oversight can help ensure that national security efforts are carried out within the boundaries of the law and in line with democratic principles. Building a new national security culture is crucial for maintaining internal security and strengthening democracy at all levels. Civil society organizations have a crucial role to play in driving a national movement to ensure that citizens are effectively engaged in embracing and following the principles of national security culture. By raising awareness, promoting civic education, collaborating with security institutions, and encouraging active citizenship, civil society can significantly contribute to creating a secure and democratic society for all. CAPSI has decided to launch this national movement on November 24. 2023 at 18th Security Leadership Summit to be held at Gandhinagar,‘Gujarat. It will be followed by a Round Table & New National Security Culture Conclave to be organised at New Delhi.

International

Bosch Opens New Semiconductor Test Center for Chips and Sensors In Malaysia

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202407 mins

350-million-euro investment by the middle of the next decade to strengthen global semiconductor supply chain Global demand for chips for the automotive and consumer goods industries remains high. That is why Bosch is continuing to expand its semiconductor business. The company has now opened a new test center for chips and sensors in Penang, Malaysia, at a cost of some 65 million euros; it plans to invest a further 285 million euros at the site by the middle of the next decade. “With our new semiconductor test center in Penang, we are creating additional capacity within our worldwide manufacturing network to meet the continued high demand for chips and sensors,” said Dr. Stefan Hartung, Chairman of the Bosch Board of Management, “Semiconductors are a decisive success factor for all Bosch business areas, and the expansion of this business is strategically very important.” Fully connected test center in Penang creates additional capacity for Bosch to meet continued growth in chip demand. Stefan Hartung said, “The expansion of our semiconductor business is strategically very important for Bosch.” New test center includes more than 18,000 square meters of clean rooms, office space, and R&D laboratories for up to 400 associates. Bosch continues to invest in its worldwide semiconductor manufact With our new semiconductor test center in Penang, we are creating additional capacity within our worldwide manufacturing network to meet the continued high demand for chips and sensors, said Dr. Stefan Hartung, Chairman of the Bosch Board of Management. In total, Bosch has some 100,000 square meters of land available on Penang’s mainland strip. The new test center currently covers more than 18,000 square meters and includes clean rooms, office space, and laboratories for quality assurance and manufacturing. By the middle of the next decade, up to 400 associates will be working there. With the new factory and a total of 4,200 associates, Penang is now Bosch’s biggest location in Southeast Asia. Semiconductor manufacturing can basically be divided into two sections: frontend manufacturing and backend manufacturing. For the latter, Malaysia is an important hub in the global semiconductor supply chain. The country is estimated to cover around 13 percent of global backend manufacturing. According to official figures, in recent years the state of Penang has generated more than 5 percent of worldwide semiconductor revenue. “The new test center in Penang brings our manufacturing network closer to the companies that serve the further value chain of semiconductor manufacturing as well as to customers in this important Asian market. That shortens delivery times and routes, and it improves our competitiveness,” said Dr. Markus Heyn, Member of the Bosch Board of Management and Chairman of the Mobility Business Sector. The new Bosch test center receives funding from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority. One of the most cutting-edge test centers in Southeast Asia The frontend is where the actual circuits are attached and patterned on the wafers; at Bosch, for example, this work is currently performed in the clean rooms of the wafer fabs in Reutlingen and Dresden. The backend is where the individual chips are then separated from the wafers, assembled, and tested. Bosch currently carries out most of the final testing of its semiconductors in Reutlingen, Germany; Suzhou, China; and Hatvan, Hungary. Those locations will now be joined by the new test center in Penang, Malaysia. The fully connected plant is one of the most advanced semiconductor test centers in Southeast Asia. Here, Bosch will immediately begin testing semiconductors that the company manufactures at its frontend in Dresden, among other locations. “Our new test center in Penang completes our internal process chain, especially for semiconductors from Dresden,” Heyn said. Bosch invests further in chip business Bosch is pursuing a global growth strategy with its semiconductor business. Over the next three years, the company plans to invest some three billion euros in Dresden and Reutlingen, both as part of its own investment plan and under the auspices of the European IPCEI ME/ CT (Important Project of Common European Interest on Microelectronics and Communication Technologies) funding program. Following its expected acquisition of part of the business of TSI Semiconductors, based in Roseville, California, which is expected before the end of the year, Bosch plans to invest roughly an additional 1.4 billion euros in retooling the fab to support the latest manufacturing processes for silicon carbide semiconductors.

Feature

AI Can Accurately Predict Potentially Fatal Cardiac Events in Firefighters

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202408 mins

Training a machine-learning model with real-lifedata from firefighters was key Firefighters regularly risk their lives in dangerous situations, but most deaths on duty are not directly caused by fire or smoke inhalation. Instead, approximately 40% of on-duty fatalities come from sudden cardiac death. Now, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and their colleagues have used a form of AI known as machine learning to accurately identify abnormal cardiac rhythms in firefighters. The researchers hope their work will eventually lead to a portable heart monitor that firefighters could wear to catch early warning signs of heart trouble and prompt them to seek medical attention before it’s too late. The team, which includes researchers from NIST, the University of Rochester and Google, published its results in the Fire Safety Journal. Sudden cardiac death claimed the lives of 36 firefighters on duty in 2022, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Sudden cardiac death occurs when an irregular heart rhythm causes the heart to stop pumping blood, most commonly due to a heart attack. Sudden cardiac events kill on-duty firefighters at twice the rate of police officers and four times the rate of other emergency responders. “Year after year, sudden cardiac events are by far the number one killer of firefighters,” said NIST Researcher Chris Brown, “Cardiac events also cause career-ending injuries and long-term disabilities.” Firefighters work in remarkably strenuous environments, carrying heavy objects, climbing stairs, and enduring extreme temperatures with a limited ability to cool off. And while they may experience significant discomfort, reports have shown that firefighters often try to push through these situations without realizing they may be at risk for sudden cardiac death. To address this issue, the NIST researchers got in touch with colleagues from the University of Rochester School of Nursing. A decade ago, Rochester researcher Mary Carey and her colleagues collected 24 hours of electrocardiogram (ECG) data from each of 112 firefighters, who had electrodes strapped to their chests. The ECG data encompassed 16-hour on-duty shifts and eight-hour off-duty shifts during which the firefighters engaged in their daily activities such as answering fire and medical calls, exercising, eating, resting and sleeping. “The firefighter data we collected is so unique,” said Rochester Co-author Dillon Dzikowicz, “Having robust data is essential to move our work forward and protect firefighters.” The researchers then used machine learning and the Rochester dataset to build what they call the Heart Health Monitoring (H2M) model. They trained H2M with 12-second segments of a large portion of the ECG data. Individual heartbeats in the ECGs were classified as normal beats or abnormal beats indicative of irregular heart rhythms such as an atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. “The model is designed to effectively learn ECG patterns from both normal and abnormal beats,” said NIST Guest Researcher Jiajia Li. Once H2M was trained and validated, it analyzed firefighter ECG data from the Rochester dataset that it had not previously seen. When presented with approximately 6,000 abnormal ECG samples, H2M identified them correctly with about 97% accuracy. As a check, H2M was also trained using ECG datasets from non-firefighters. When it used this non-firefighter data, H2M had an error rate of about 40% in identifying cardiac events in the firefighter data. “Using the right dataset to train the AI model was critical,” said NIST Researcher Wai Cheong Tam. In the future, the researchers envision that this model could be incorporated into portable heart monitors that firefighters could wear on duty to warn them of cardiac irregularities in real time. Such an AI assistant could be the next best thing to a cardiologist accompanying a crew fighting a fire. “This technology can save lives,” said Tam, adding that this approach could be broadened to help other groups if the AI is trained with appropriate ECG datasets, “It could benefit not only firefighters but other first responders and additional populations in the general public.”

Case Study

A Leading Pharmaceutical Company Trusts Matrix SATATYA SAMAS for its Video Management System Requirements

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202407 mins

Company Profile A prominent pharmaceutical company, founded in 1935, is a leading player in manufacturing and distributing high-quality medicines that effectively combat respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as ailments like arthritis, diabetes, and depression. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, the company actively engages in corporate social responsibility initiatives. It collaborates with healthcare professionals and organizations throughout the world to raise awareness, improve education, and enhance access to essential medications. The company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, accessibility, and social responsibility continues to have a significant impact on the healthcare landscape, positively transforming lives and contributing to a healthier future for all. Challenges For the past eight years, the company had been using a video surveillance system from a competitor. However, they encountered numerous technical challenges that resulted in prolonged downtimes and reduced overall system reliability. When they sought support from the designated company, their concerns were neither addressed promptly nor effectively. This left them vulnerable to potential risks compromising their overall security. In addition, the maintenance and storage costs associated with their existing system were excessively high. This strained their budget and hindered their ability to allocate resources to other critical areas of their operations. Another notable challenge was the distributed nature of their premises, due to which proper centralized monitoring of all the areas was not possible. Furthermore, the company faced limitations with their outdated video surveillance system, which hindered their ability to take advantage of advancements in image quality, video analytics, and storage efficiency provided by modern solutions. This technological gap prevented them from fully harnessing the potential of video surveillance technology and extracting valuable insights from their surveillance data. Solution Offered Matrix experts successfully met the company’s requirements by supplying them with SATATYA SAMAS PLT – Enterprise Video Management Software. To complement the software, five SATATYA SAMAS CAM100 licenses were also provided, allowing for seamless integration and control of these cameras. This comprehensive software solution enabled the company to centrally manage and monitor up to 500 cameras deployed throughout their premises. In addition, the organization opted for two SATATYA SAMAS USER3 licenses, which granted simultaneous access to the Video Management Software for six users. This enabled the organization’s personnel to efficiently view live video feeds, review recorded footage, manage camera settings, and perform other critical tasks from a centralized location. The ability to monitor multiple locations within their premises was made possible through this centralized monitoring system. To further enhance their video surveillance capabilities, 24 IP cameras and one Network Video Recorder (NVR) were also provided for a specific location in the center. This additional equipment ensured comprehensive coverage and reliable recording capabilities for that particular area, contributing to the organization’s overall security infrastructure. Moreover, with the Matrix SATATYA SAMAS PLT software, users are entitled to receive free software upgrades for a duration of one year. These upgrades have been thoroughly tested and validated to ensure their quality and compatibility with the system. The company can enjoy the benefits of these upgrades without any additional charges during the specified time frame, thus providing them with a reliable and up-todate video management solution. Results Matrix’s Video Surveillance Solution delivered a range of benefits that catered to the company’s specific needs. Matrix SATATYA SAMAS easily integrated with the third-party cameras previously installed within the premises. It enabled centralized monitoring and management of all locations within the premises. This critical feature allowed the firm to oversee and control its security operations from a single, unified platform. By consolidating surveillance activities, the firm achieved improved efficiency, streamlined workflows, and a higher level of security across its entire infrastructure. With Matrix SATATYA SAMAS, the firm gained seamless access to live views, playback options, and comprehensive monitoring features. The solution offered advanced functionalities such as E-Map monitoring, enabling users to effortlessly view camera footage from specific locations. This feature proved to be invaluable in enhancing situational awareness and streamlining surveillance operations. Real-time notifications including Video Pop-up, SMS, Email, and Alarms, played a pivotal role in transforming the firm’s security infrastructure. These notifications provided immediate alerts and updates, ensuring that any potential threats or incidents were promptly addressed. Furthermore, the installation of Matrix SATATYA SAMAS brought peace of mind to the firm’s personnel by eliminating technical glitches and system instability. Matrix’s commitment to delivering exceptional support and assistance also alleviated any concerns, as the firm was assured of instant technical support whenever required.

Latest

Hikvision Introduces a Whole New Range of Standalone Photoelectric Smoke and Gas Detectors

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202405 mins

Hikvision India has introduced a new range of Standalone Smoke and Gas Detectors. It has launched two product models HF-S2E Eco and NP-FY200 in the Photoelectric Smoke Detector category. The company has also unveiled the Carbon Monoxide Gas Detector HF-GM100 for the India market. In today’s world of smart sensing systems, photoelectric smoke detectors are useful and widely appreciated smoke detectors in both home and office environments. Hikvision Photoelectric Smoke Detector system is smarter and quicker at detecting smoldering fires than other types of smoke detectors. In the sensing chamber of a photoelectric smoke alarm, there is a light-emitting diode and a light-sensitive sensor. The straight line of the LED light beam gets scattered by even a little presence of suspended smoke particles. Then these scattered lights are detected by the photo sensor and the alarm begins to sound. Photoelectric smoke alarms are generally a smoke alarm with light-sensitive sensors in it that can detect smoldering fires very quickly. Hikvision Photoelectric Smoke Detector’s alarm rings whenever smoke particles are detected. Hikvision Photoelectric Smoke Detectors HF-S2E Eco is the newly launched model of Hikvision Photoelectric Smoke Detectors. These Photoelectric Smoke Detectors can sense and detect the smoke, fire, etc., and send out sounder alarm signals. It has built-in Alarm indicating buzzer. Its sound level is ≥85dB@3m. It has a battery life of 3 years (AAx2), it is easy to replace. This Smoke Detector supports multiple alarm types (low battery alarm, maze dirty alarm). It supports the self-check function to verify whether the device is working properly. It supports silence and reset modes locally. Multi Sensor Detector NP-FY200 Photoelectric Smoke Detector is a Dual-light sensing technology for reducing false alarm caused by vapor. It has a built-in Alarm indicating buzzer. Its sound level is ≥85dB@3m (A-Weighted). This Smoke Detector is powered by a lithium battery, it has a long battery life under normal operation. It supports test feature to verify whether the device is working properly. It supports multiple alarm types: low voltage alarm, tampering alarm, maze dirty alarm. It also has constant temperature alarm and differential temperature alarm. These Photoelectric Smoke Detectors are used in following application scenarios, including shops, residences, hotels, heritage building, commercial vehicles & small commercial place and other vertical scenarios. Carbon Monoxide Gas Detector Hikvision Carbon Monoxide Gas Detector (HF-GM100) rapidly detects carbon monoxide, which is odorless, colorless, and poisonous, and it cannot be detected by human senses. It has high performance Figaro electrochemical sensor. It has a battery life of 5 years (AAx2), it is easy to replace. The alarm output options are sound and LED flash alarm. It has an alarm indicating buzzer. Its sound level supports ≥85dB@3m. It supports silence and reset modes locally. It also supports the self-check function to verify whether the device is working properly. These Carbon Monoxide Gas Detectors are used in following application scenarios, including shops, residences, hotels, parking areas and other relevant scenarios.

National

Tata Tele Business Services Launches Smartflo UCaaS Integrated with Microsoft Teams

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202406 mins

Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS), one of India’s leading enablers of digital connectivity and cloud solutions for businesses, has announced the launch of Smartflo Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS), a unique voice solution integrated with Microsoft Teams. Smartflo UCaaS solution works with Direct Routing for Teams, allowing users to place PSTN calls (to a landline or mobile number) from their desktop, laptop, or mobile device using the corporate network. This model provides the convenience of unified communication with built-in privacy for users. It replaces traditional PBXs and enables key calling capabilities with a cloud-based call control system. With the increasing number of enterprises perpetually operating with a blend of an onsite and remote workforce, the demand for UCaaS solution is expected to rise. BFSI, IT, ITes, Services and Manufacturing are among the top industries to adopt UCaaS. Commenting on this offering, Samik Roy, Executive Director, Corporate, Medium and Small Business, Microsoft India, said, “This new offering integrated with Microsoft Teams will benefit businesses with seamless communication and collaboration to drive greater efficiencies and productivity, in a secure and cost-effective manner. This is the latest example in a growing list of collaborations between Microsoft and TTBS to deliver flexibility, scalability, and new capabilities to empower businesses in their digital transformation journey.” Vishal Rally Sr. Vice President – Product, Commercial and Marketing, Tata Teleservices “Proliferation of hybrid work culture and an expanding remote workforce is driving the need for a unified, cost-effective, and secure communication solution. Smartflo UCaaS has been developed with an endeavor to seamlessly bridge the gap between remote employees and the office while enhancing business efficiency. It not only makes 1-1 business calls richer and collaborative but also replaces on-premises legacy telephone infrastructure helping businesses optimize costs. By combining two leading services, TTBS Voice and Microsoft Teams, we deliver advanced capabilities effectively to create better connections with employees and customers. Our association with Microsoft underscores our shared vision to enhance the digital capabilities of SMBs and help them Do Big” TTBS has been at the forefront of democratizing technology and empowering enterprises with innovative and reliable solutions as they move up the digital curve. Smartflo UCaaS integrates all enterprise channels of communication on a single platform boosting employee productivity and reducing overall infrastructure costs in a secure environment. TTBS has taken several initiatives in recent times to empower businesses with innovative and reliable solutions that help them build digital maturity and continue seamless operations in a flexible, scalable, and secure manner. The company’s Smart Business Solutions portfolio comprises of Smartflo CCaaS suite, an advanced cloud communication suite integrated with omni-channel capabilities, SmartOffice- a one-box start-up kit with voice, data, apps, storage & much more, Smart Internet Leased Line with built in cloud security, SD-WAN iFLX an intelligently flexible solution for network optimization, and a comprehensive suite of cyber security solutions. Tata Teleservices Limited alongwith its subsidiary Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited is a growing market leader in the Enterprise space. It offers a comprehensive portfolio of connectivity, collaboration, cloud & SaaS, security, and marketing solutions for businesses in the country under the brand name Tata Tele Business Services (TTBS). Tata Teleservices has an extensive, high quality and robust wireline network and offers its products and services in more than 60 cities across India. Tata Teleservices has one of the largest enterprise focused team in the industry with deep customer engagement and technology orientation offering focused sales and service experience to customers.

National

Peregrine Guarding Elevates Brig Mayank Awasthi to Managing Director for the North Region

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 202404 mins

He has assumed responsibility for overseeing operations and driving revenue growth for the entire northern territory, including the north-east region Peregrine Guarding, India’s leading private security company and a part of Tenon Group, has elevated Brig Mayank Awasthi (Retd.) as the Managing Director for the north and north-east region. Brig Mayank Awasthi (Retd.) Brig Mayank Awasthi has had a distinguished career spanning over 33 years in the Indian Army. Brig Awasthi is a highly experienced professional who has served in crucial missions such as the IPKF in Sri Lanka and the UN mission in Colombo. Having transitioned to the corporate sector in October 2022, he joined Tenon Group as the Associate Director of Operations for Delhi NCR and the Upper North region. As the Managing Director for the North region, Brig Awasthi would oversee operations, drive revenue growth, and ensure efficient collection processes for the region. On his new responsibility, Brig Mayank Awasthi said, “As I embark on this journey with the new role, I would like to thank the leadership at Tenon Group for their constant trust and support. Throughout my career, I have successfully motivated teams to perform their best, and I hope to do the same in my new role at Peregrine Guarding. I look forward to this new chapter.” Major Manjit Rajain, Global Chairman, Tenon Group, said, “Brig Awasthi’s exemplary service in the Indian Army and his expertise in diverse subject matter, from security and disaster management to budgeting and logistics, is a huge advantage to Peregrine Guarding. His unwavering confidence, determination, and persistence have brought him to this level, and we are looking forward to working with him in this capacity.” Brig Awasthi’s proficiency in leveraging technology and implementing advanced systems, honed during his time in the military, makes him well-equipped to achieve results efficiently. Moreover, he possesses subject matter expertise in diverse areas, including security, infrastructure building, budgeting, disaster management, logistics, defense consulting, surveillance systems, and procurement. A renowned name in the global security market, Peregrine Guarding was founded in 1995 in India to help businesses operate and grow in a secure environment. The brand which began with only Physical Security Services now offers a wide range of security services, including Electronic Security, Risk Assessment Consultancy, Executive Protection, Event Security, and Command Centre Operations. Peregrine has remarkably grown to become one of the leading integrated security solutions providers with 78+ offices spread across all states of India.

National

NETGEAR 2023 IoT Security Landscape Report Brings IoT Security Concerns into Sharp Focus

MassMediaLink India LLP SecurityLink IndiaAugust 30, 2023November 14, 2024011 mins

Marthesh Nagendra Country Manager – India, ME & SAARC The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items that use sensors, software, and network connectivity to collect and exchange data. These connected devices are changing the way we live, work, and communicate. Along with their myriad blessings, they are also opening up new avenues for crime. As a result, IoT devices have emerged as the most vulnerable equipment in the world today. As manufacturers increasingly scrap ‘dumb’ devices in favor of smart Internet-connected versions, smart homes are growing around their owners, enveloping the humans that own them without them being aware of it. The once romanticized notions of the smart house, often portrayed on TV as a cheery aide to a seamless life, have given way to privacy invasions, data breaches, and ruthless ransomware attacks targeting network-attached storage. If improperly configured, or shipped with vulnerabilities and security hazards that were overlooked during quality assurance, these devices can spell catastrophes for privacy and data integrity. They can even jeopardize the integrity of the Internet itself. 2023 IoT Security Landscape Report: Key Findings NETGEAR’s recently released ‘2023 IoT Security Landscape Report’ brings into sharp focus the immense security concerns involving IoT devices. Based on threat intelligence sampled by 2.6 million smart homes around the world, the NETGEAR Study investigated nearly 120 million IoT devices. The study revealed that IoT devices are generating a whopping 3.6 billion security events around the world every day. This translates into 20 connected devices per household, with 8 cyber attacks occurring every 24 hrs. The report, no doubt, makes shocking revelations about the vulnerabilities of Smart Homes. To get a clear understanding of these Smart Homes, let’s take look at the most popular devices and the top vulnerabilities affecting them: Smartphones: Almost 41% of the devices connected to home routers are smartphones. This number includes guest devices that can be temporarily associated with the network. Computers: Computers and laptops are the most common devices found in connected homes. While they have lost to mobile devices in popularity, they still witness steady growth worldwide. Streaming Devices: Streaming devices are popular means of turning a ‘dumb’ TV into an Internet connected device. Tablet: Tablets have gained significant traction during the COVID-19 outbreak as schools have started issuing tablets for online education. Console: Game consoles also double as entertainment centers. They come with dedicated hardware and software for playing games and typically connect to a TV or monitor to display the game. Common Vulnerabilities of IoT Devices Going by the security incidents of 2022, most attacks spotted last year rely on already known common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs) included in automated attack toolkits. Although these common vulnerabilities are known to both IoT vendors and attackers, firmware vendors may take significant time to assess, patch, and deliver fixes for the devices already deployed in smart homes. This potentially provides cybercriminals a window of opportunity. Blocking these attacks, calls for layered technologies to stop them cold before they reach the vulnerable IoT device in your network. The exploitation of IoT devices targets different outcomes, depending on device type and purpose, connectivity options, and monetization opportunities. Vulnerability outcomes range from undermining the systems’ capacity to perform expected functions to executing code on the device and hijacking its functions. IoT Risks to Consider Cybersecurity risks: Smart homes are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, as many IoT devices have weak security measures. This can allow hackers to gain access to personal information, such as passwords and financial data, and even take control of smart devices. Privacy concerns: Many smart devices are equipped with cameras, microphones, and other sensors that can collect data about users without their knowledge or consent. This can result in a violation of privacy, which is of particular concern for in-house deployment. Physical safety risks: Smart plugs, door locks, and cameras are becoming increasingly popular. These devices control physical security aspects such as lighting, access control, and surveillance. Any disruption in operation or loss of control can impact physical security. Predictions 2023 Privacy concerns will demand change: IoT devices thrive on big data. An FTC study in 2015 estimated that ‘fewer than 10,000 households can ‘generate 150 million discrete data points a day’ or approximately, one data point every six seconds for each household. Today, things are even worse. The 2022 Connectivity and Mobile Trends Survey by Deloitte outlines that one in two IoT users expressed concerns over the security vulnerabilities in smart home devices that might expose the troves of collected information, while 40% of respondents fear that they might be spied on. Botnets will continue to grow: IoT devices will increasingly become targets for botnets, which can launch large-scale distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Cybercriminals will continue to invest significant efforts in exploitation and persistence mechanisms to help them grow their infected device base. IoT security will get worse before it gets better: Vendors’ slow reaction to vulnerability disclosure and patching will persist into 2023. Although new regulations – such as the EU Cyber Resilience Act -are anticipated to provide some relief by imposing mandatory cyber-security standards for products sold within the bloc, their enforcement is not expected until at least 2025. Top Six Best Practices to Secure IoT Devices Both home users and employees should be aware of active IoT devices in their networks and keep them up to date. If some devices are past their life, replace them immediately with newer models. Move all smart devices to a dedicated guest network to isolate them from the main network. Patch devices as soon as a new firmware version becomes available. Use routers or gateways with built-in security. Probe the home network for vulnerable devices with a smart home scanner. Avoid exposing LAN devices to the Internet unless necessary. Router Security As crucial Internet infrastructure, routers are exposed to a wide range of security threats. A combination of outdated software, lack of encryption, weak passwords, misconfigured remote management, as well as an overall lack of…