Daily Current Affairs : 20-December-2023

In light of the growing menace of cyberattacks, the Indian government has taken a proactive step by implementing a robust and secure e-mail system. This initiative specifically caters to 10,000 users within critical ministries and departments, signifying a targeted approach to fortify the nation’s digital infrastructure.

Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA): A Paradigm Shift in Security

At the heart of this secure e-mail system lies the revolutionary Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA) model, a pivotal shift from traditional security paradigms. ZTA operates on the principle of trusting no one, not even authenticated users, until their identity and authorization are explicitly verified. This approach drastically reduces the risk of unauthorized access and enhances overall cybersecurity.

Advanced Security Measures: Fortifying the Digital Fortress

The National Informatics Centre (NIC), the architect behind this state-of-the-art e-mail system, has incorporated advanced security measures to ensure its resilience against cyber threats. The inclusion of two-factor authentication stands out as a key feature, providing an additional layer of protection beyond conventional username and password combinations. Users can opt for facial recognition or biometrics, diversifying authentication methods for heightened security.

Real-time Monitoring: Vigilance in Action

To bolster the system’s defensibility, the e-mail system meticulously records and monitors log-in and log-out times. This real-time monitoring not only acts as a deterrent to potential malicious actors but also facilitates swift response in case of any suspicious activities. By maintaining a vigilant watch over user activities, the government aims to stay one step ahead of cyber adversaries.

A Response to Ongoing Threats: Strengthening Cybersecurity Infrastructure

This strategic move is embedded within the broader context of the government’s commitment to fortify its cybersecurity defenses. With a backdrop of multiple cyberattack attempts targeting critical installations and government websites, the secure e-mail system represents a tangible step towards creating a resilient digital ecosystem in India. As the nation continues to navigate the evolving landscape of cyber threats, such proactive measures are instrumental in safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of critical digital infrastructure.

Important Points:
  • Secure E-mail System Implementation:
    • Targeted towards 10,000 users in critical ministries and departments.
    • A proactive response to the escalating threat of cyberattacks.
  • Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA) Model:
    • Represents a paradigm shift in security approaches.
    • Trusts no one, requiring explicit verification of identity and authorization.
    • Significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
  • Advanced Security Measures by NIC:
    • Incorporation of Two-Factor Authentication:
      • Provides an additional layer of protection.
      • Users can opt for facial recognition or biometrics.
    • Aims to diversify authentication methods for heightened security.
  • Real-time Monitoring for Enhanced Vigilance:
    • Meticulous recording and monitoring of log-in and log-out times.
    • Acts as a deterrent to potential malicious actors.
    • Facilitates swift response in case of suspicious activities.
  • Broader Context of Strengthening Cybersecurity:
    • Part of the government’s commitment to fortify cybersecurity defenses.
    • Responds to multiple cyberattack attempts on critical installations and government websites.
    • Represents a tangible step towards creating a resilient digital ecosystem in India.
  • Strategic Importance in the Face of Cyber Threats:
    • Proactive measures are instrumental in safeguarding sensitive information.
    • Aims to maintain the integrity of critical digital infrastructure.
    • Reflects the nation’s commitment to navigate the evolving landscape of cyber threats successfully.
Why In News

In response to the increasing threat of cyberattacks, the Indian government has taken proactive measures and established a secure e-mail system for 10,000 users in critical ministries and departments, fortifying the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure and safeguarding sensitive communications from potential threats.

MCQs about A Robust Secure E-mail System and Zero Trust Authentication

  1. What is the primary objective of India’s secure e-mail system implementation?
    A. Enhancing social media communication
    B. Targeting critical ministries and departments
    C. Establishing a gaming platform
    D. Creating a music streaming service
    Correct Answer: B. Targeting critical ministries and departments
    Explanation: The secure e-mail system is specifically designed to target 10,000 users in critical ministries and departments, aiming to fortify the nation’s digital infrastructure against cyber threats.
  2. What security paradigm does the e-mail system operate on?
    A. Traditional Password Authentication
    B. Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA)
    C. Single-Factor Authentication
    D. Open Authentication System
    Correct Answer: B. Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA)
    Explanation: The e-mail system operates on the Zero Trust Authentication (ZTA) model, which trusts no one until their identity and authorization are explicitly verified, representing a significant shift from traditional security approaches.
  3. What key feature enhances security in the e-mail system beyond username and password combinations?
    A. QR Code Authentication
    B. Two-Factor Authentication
    C. Email Verification
    D. Phone Number Authentication
    Correct Answer: B. Two-Factor Authentication
    Explanation: Two-Factor Authentication is a key feature, providing an additional layer of protection beyond conventional username and password combinations, allowing users to opt for facial recognition or biometrics.
  4. How does real-time monitoring contribute to the system’s security?
    A. Enhancing internet speed
    B. Recording log-in and log-out times
    C. Improving hardware performance
    D. Enabling automatic software updates
    Correct Answer: B. Recording log-in and log-out times
    Explanation: Real-time monitoring involves recording and monitoring log-in and log-out times, acting as a deterrent to potential malicious actors and facilitating a swift response in case of suspicious activities.

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