Global Cybersecurity Association launches GCA Index to help curb cyber crime

Global Cybersecurity Association (GCA) on Tuesday announced the launch of ‘GCA Index’ — a first-of-its kind index that aims to serve as a go-to reliable resource, offering insights into various use cases and highlighting products, services, and solutions available in the market. The GCA Index aims to provide a centralized platform for individuals and organizations to identify relevant and reliable cybersecurity solutions. 

Bringing to light that MeitY Annual Report 2022-23 states that 76 crore citizens and an average of 40 crore average e-transactions happen on a daily basis, GCA (a non-profit body) says it hopes to empower individuals and organizations to help navigate this dynamic and critical aspect of digital security with confidence. The body says it aims to become India's premier cybersecurity advocate by providing reliable resources to individuals and organizations on all aspects of cybersecurity threats, and its protection through various tools. 

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Gulshan Rai, former National Cybersecurity Coordinator and Former DG - CERT-In, said, “India has been successfully ranked at the 10th position since 2021, however, with the GCA coming into place, we further expect to better our rank. To do this, we need to address the critical issue of managing the interface of IT and OT in the near future. If we do not act now, we will not be able to manage the ever-burgeoning cyber threats. This is a collective responsibility and GCA will be the guiding light for the government and citizens together making India cybersecure. The launch of ‘GCA Index’ marks the first step towards us becoming cybersecure."

The body states that the GCA Index for Individuals may help reduce cybercrime in India. On the occasion of the announcement, Manoj Bhale, President - GCA, said, “Building a secure digital India demands collective experience and action. Through accessible resources, collaborative forums, and the GCA Index, we strive to equip stakeholders with the tools and knowledge needed to combat cyber threats head-on.”

CERT-In Annual Report 2022 states that it handled 13,91,457 incidents in 2022 in India including website intrusion and malware propagation, malicious code, phishing, distributed denial of service attacks, website defacements, unauthorized network scanning/probing activities, ransomware attacks, data breach, and others. Roopali Mehra, Member of Governing Council of GCA, informed, "India's digital journey brings immense opportunities, along with vulnerabilities. The GCA stands as a sentinel, fostering awareness and enabling informed cybersecurity decisions for all. We are the bridge between knowledge and action, empowering Digital Naagriks and Experts to become the active defenders of our digital borders.”

GCA said applications for the GCA Index are now open for cybersecurity products, solutions, and service organizations to apply to be a part of the initiative.