Its Overview, Formation, Motto, Role and Functions [Current Affairs]

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is the nodal agency responsible for handling cybersecurity incidents in India. It operates under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and plays a crucial role in securing the Indian cyber domain. Established in 2004, CERT-In has been instrumental in enhancing the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure and awareness.

Full Form of CERT-In

CERT-In stands for the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team. It is the national agency responsible for handling cybersecurity incidents in India. Established in 2004 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), CERT-In plays a key role in securing the country’s cyber infrastructure.

An Overview of CERT-In

• Full Form: Indian Computer Emergency Response Team
• Formed: 19^th January 2004
• Headquarter: New Delhi
• Motto: Handling Cyber Security Incidents
• Parent Department: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

Background and Formation of CERT-In

CERT-In was established in 2004 by the Government of India under Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The agency serves as the National Incident Response Centre for major cybersecurity incidents within India. It is a part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and focuses on securing Indian cyberspace by raising awareness and providing technical assistance to various sectors.

Motto of CERT-In

The motto of CERT-In, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team, is “Handling Cyber Security Incidents.” This reflects its core mission of addressing and managing cybersecurity threats and incidents across India. CERT-In is dedicated to providing timely technical assistance, raising cybersecurity awareness, and coordinating responses to significant cyber incidents. By focusing on incident management and proactive security measures, CERT-In aims to safeguard India’s digital infrastructure and enhance overall cybersecurity resilience.

Key Functions of CERT-In

The IT Amendment Act of 2008 designated CERT-In to perform specific functions in the area of cyber security. These functions include:

1. Collection and Analysis of Cyber Incidents: CERT-In is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information related to cyber incidents. By forecasting and issuing alerts, the agency helps in preventing and mitigating cyber security threats.
2. Coordination of Emergency Measures: In the event of a cyber security incident, CERT-In coordinates the response activities and emergency measures. This includes calling for information from relevant entities and issuing guidelines and advisories to address the incident effectively.
3. Guidance and Advisory Issuance: CERT-In issues various guidelines, advisories, vulnerability notes, and whitepapers related to information security practices. These documents provide essential information on prevention, response, and reporting of cyber incidents, helping organisations and individuals enhance their security measures.
4. Implementation of Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP): CERT-In leads the implementation of the Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP) across Central Government Ministries, Departments, States, and critical organisations. The CCMP is a framework designed to counter cyber attacks and cyber terrorism, providing a structured approach to dealing with cyber-related incidents.

CERT-In’s Role in Enhancing Cyber Security

CERT-In’s continuous monitoring and handling of cyber incidents significantly enhance the security defences of India’s internet domain. The agency’s proactive approach in analysing threats and coordinating responses plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and secure cyberspace in the country.