Experts Say Technology Can Combat the Threat of Cyber Fraud | Kanpur News

Kanpur: C3iHub Hosts International Conference on Digital Forensics

In a significant stride towards enhancing cybersecurity and digital forensics, the Cybersecurity Technology Innovation Hub (C3iHub) at IIT Kanpur, in collaboration with the University of Tulsa, USA, recently hosted the 21st International Conference on Digital Forensics in New Delhi. This two-day event attracted over 350 distinguished professionals from various sectors, including investigative agencies, forensic labs, academic institutions, law enforcement, and government bodies, alongside international participants. The conference served as a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing challenges, and exploring innovative solutions in the rapidly evolving field of digital forensics.

A Diverse Range of Topics

The conference featured a plethora of insightful research papers that delved into critical areas of digital forensics. Participants presented their findings on topics such as dashcam and mobile forensics, deepfake detection, product authentication, forensic tools, and industrial control systems. These presentations not only showcased the latest advancements in technology but also highlighted the pressing need for effective forensic methodologies in an increasingly digital world.

Panel discussions further enriched the conference experience, focusing on government initiatives and policies aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity ecosystem. Experts engaged in meaningful dialogues about the laws, regulations, and ethical considerations surrounding digital forensics, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach to tackle the challenges posed by cyber threats.

Launch of Indigenous Forensic Tool

A notable highlight of the conference was the launch of the indigenous mobile forensic tool ‘CHITRAGUPT’ by Forensic CyberTech Pvt Ltd. This innovative solution is designed for the extraction, analysis, and reporting of data from mobile devices, addressing a critical need in the forensic community. The introduction of such tools underscores the commitment to developing homegrown solutions that cater to the unique challenges faced by law enforcement and forensic experts in India.

Keynote Lectures: Insights from Experts

The conference featured keynote lectures from prominent figures in the field of cybersecurity. Lt Gen M Unnikrishnan Nair, the National Cybersecurity Coordinator at the National Security Council Secretariat, Government of India, delivered a compelling talk on ‘Digital Forensics: Challenges Arising Due to Emerging Technologies.’ He emphasized the growing threats posed by ransomware attacks and advanced malware, as well as the difficulties in discerning truth from falsehood in digital environments. Nair called for increased research and collaboration to protect citizens and critical infrastructure from these evolving technological threats.

Dr. Gaurav Gupta, director and scientist ‘F’ at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), also shared his insights on the evolving digital forensics ecosystem. He discussed the emerging challenges posed by computer frauds and cybercrimes, particularly in relation to Cyber-Physical Systems, Quantum Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Dr. Gupta introduced a patent-pending solution for an anti-counterfeiting printable technology, which can be generated using a standard color printer and verified for authenticity through a customized smartphone app. His remarks underscored the need for innovative solutions to combat the creativity of cybercriminals.

The Vision for Digital Forensics

The organizing chair of the conference, Prof. Somitra Kr Sanadhya, who is also the dean of digital infrastructure and automation and chief information security officer at IIT Jodhpur, expressed his commitment to advancing the field of digital forensics. He highlighted the potential of digital forensics to expedite investigations involving electronic evidence, thereby benefiting law enforcement agencies. Prof. Sanadhya aims to inspire students interested in pursuing research in digital forensics by exposing them to cutting-edge research and developments in the field.

Conclusion

The 21st International Conference on Digital Forensics at IIT Kanpur marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance cybersecurity and forensic capabilities in India. By bringing together experts from various sectors, the conference facilitated valuable discussions and collaborations aimed at addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the insights and innovations shared during this event will undoubtedly contribute to building a more secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem.