In recent days the media has highlighted some statements from the Central Government about the need of 5 lakh Cyber Security professionals in India. In order to address the skill gaps in Cyber Security professionals that India may require in the future, EC Council (International Council of E-Commerce Consultants), a provider of certifications and training on information security has launched a publicity drive to market its services. In association with its training partners in India, the US-based company is expecting to offer training to about 40,000 people on areas such as Ethical Hacking, Computer Hacking Forensics Investigation, Security Analysis and Penetration Testing.
EC Council has been in business in India for quite some time and has been focussing on its “Ethical Hacking” programs. While such programs are attractive to youngsters, it is necessary for Cyber Security professionals to be developed on a foundation of “Responsibility”. Merely training youngsters on skills of hacking would lead to development of a large number of potential problem elements.
It is essential for every “Ethical hacking” training programs to be peppered with a teaching of “Cyber Law” as well as fortified with a proper “background Checks”, “Post training monitoring” and behavioural training.
There is therefore an urgent need for proper supervision of all “Ethical Hacking” training programs.
It is not clear if the Department of IT, Government of India nor DSCI, the Nasscom initiative is addressing this issue before trying to create a Frankenstein.
A serious national debate is required to evaluate the outcome of this publicity blitz undertaken by E C Council whose press release is cleverly implying endorsement of INCERT and DSCI. (See this report of Business Standard).
Naavi
