A webinar on cyber security was organised by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the Central University of Odisha (CUO) through virtual mode on May 31.

The aim of the seminar was to create awareness on varieties of cyber crimes taking place and the various cyber security features that will keep one safe from hackers, cybercriminals, and other agents of fraud in the digital world.

Visiting Professor, Computer Science, CUO (Formerly Director, IIIT, Agartala, Tripura) Prof PS Avadhani and DIG Police, South-Western Range, Koraput,Pandit Rajesh Uttamrao delivered lectures as the key speakers on the occasion. Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof I Ramabrahmam inaugurated the webinar and highlighted some of the major cyber threats. He advised to be aware of them and take necessary preventive measures.

Dean, SBCNR and Director, IQAC Prof Sharat Kumar Palita presided over the programme and briefed about the importance of cyber security in the present digital world in his welcome address.

Prof PS Avadhani defined different types of cyber threats like computer viruses, hackers, cyber fraud, cybercriminals, viruses, malawares, ransomwares and cyber agents. He advised to keep RFID ATMs in aluminum foil, frequently change password, give long password instead of short, maintain secrecy as regards  password and ID numbers, use authorized antivirus in computers/laptops, protect the file and computers by giving strong security code, log out all the application before switching off the computers, and not to use cyber café in any financial transaction.  

Pandit Rajesh Uttamrao explained how people are victimized by cyber frauds by giving live examples of cyber victims. He advised people to follow the Golden Hour Rule” i.e. immediately lodge a complaint report before the Superintendent of Police or Cyber Police of your district with detailed evidence.