KOHIMA — Information Technology experts and government officials have expressed growing concern over “serious cybercrimes” targeting India, originating from countries bordering the North-eastern states, including Nagaland, and called for heightened awareness among citizens in these vulnerable regions. Speaking at the National Conference on Cybercrime, Digital Forensics & Intelligence (NCCDFI) 2024 in Kohima, S Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), said that India faces a rising tide of serious cybercrime emanating from its north-eastern borders, while stressing the importance of equipping citizens, particularly in the North-east, with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves. “We need to be particularly careful and conscious of our citizens in that part of the country… from the risks attached to cybercrime,” and this involves bolstering cyber forensic capabilities, especially within police forces, Krishnan said. The official highlighted the precarious cybersecurity situation due to India’s “difficult neighbourhood”, a risk factor that was not as prominent previously. He also raised concern over the alarming prevalence of government officials sharing their usernames and passwords with others, giving way for free access to information. Emphasising the deep integration of technology in governance, Krishnan urged for strengthening government systems, networks, and infrastructure against cyber threats....