Key role of higher education in promoting cyber hygiene

In today's digital world, where technology touches nearly every aspect of our lives, cyber hygiene has emerged as a critical area of focus.

- DR DEEVANSHU SHRIVASTAVA

With the rapid pace of digitalization and the rise of Internet penetration in India, there is a growing need for awareness and education on cybersecurity practices to ensure a safe and secure cyberspace. Higher educational institutions (HEIs) have a pivotal role in nurturing this essential knowledge, particularly given their responsibility to shape future generations and equip them with skills to thrive in a technology-driven world. As custodians of knowledge, HEIs in India are uniquely positioned to drive the culture of cyber hygiene and promote responsible digital behavior among students and the broader community. "Cyber Hygiene" refers to the practices and steps individuals and institutions take to maintain the health and security of devices, networks, and data in the digital space. Just as personal hygiene helps prevent the spread of diseases, cyber hygiene helps prevent cyber threats like malware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. Unfortunately, India's rapid digital transformation has outpaced the adoption of robust cybersecurity practices, leaving individuals and organizations vulnerable. This is where HEIs can intervene, bridging the gap between digital advancement and cybersecurity awareness. By imparting education on cyber hygiene, universities and colleges can instill a proactive approach to online safety among students, which is essential for their personal and professional lives. One of the primary ways that HEIs can contribute to cyber hygiene is by integrating cybersecurity as a fundamental component of their curriculum. Currently, while some universities offer specialized courses in cybersecurity, there is a need to make basic cyber hygiene practices a mandatory part of all academic programs. This would ensure that all students, irrespective of their academic backgrounds, acquire basic knowledge of cyber threats, safe online practices, and data privacy. Integrating cyber hygiene into general courses can include the importance of strong password