In response to rising cybercrime, Assam is set to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities by establishing India’s second National Cyber Forensics Lab (NCFL) at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon. This development is part of a broader national strategy to combat online crime and improve law enforcement’s ability to address cyber threats.

New Lab to Address Rising Cybercrime

Assam’s new National Cyber Forensics Lab will be India’s second facility of its kind. Strategically located at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy, the lab will play a crucial role in strengthening the state’s defense against increasing cybercrime, which has been escalating sharply in recent years.

National Effort to Combat Cyber Threats

The creation of the NCFL in Assam is a key component of a coordinated national response to the growing threat of cybercrime. The initiative is supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Assam police and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The I4C is instrumental in enhancing coordination among various law enforcement agencies to tackle cybercrime effectively.

Support from State and National Leaders

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai for their support in establishing the NCFL. Dr. Sarma emphasized that the lab will significantly boost the state’s cybersecurity infrastructure, enhancing its ability to prevent, investigate, and prosecute cybercrimes.

Aligning with National Cybersecurity Campaigns

The establishment of the NCFL aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Safe Cyber Space Campaign,” aimed at creating a more secure digital environment for India. This initiative is crucial as cyber fraud and digital crimes increase, posing significant risks to individuals and businesses.

Collaboration with Existing Facilities

Assam’s NCFL will complement the existing National Cyber Forensics Lab in Tripura, which has been operational since 2013. Located at the Tripura High Court, this lab has been essential in providing forensic support for cybercrime investigations and legal proceedings. The collaboration between these labs is expected to strengthen India’s overall cybersecurity infrastructure, providing technical assistance and serving as a training hub for law enforcement personnel.

Addressing the Surge in Cybercrime

Recent data from the I4C highlights an alarming rise in cyber-related fraud. Between January and April 2024, India reported over 20,000 trading scams resulting in substantial financial losses. The increase in fraudulent activities through fake trading apps, loan apps, gaming apps, and dating apps underscores the urgent need for enhanced cyber forensics and investigative capabilities.

The Role of the I4C

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), established in October 2018, plays a crucial role in India’s efforts to combat cybercrime. Its mission includes improving coordination among law enforcement agencies, streamlining cybercrime investigations, and fostering cooperation between government and private sector stakeholders. The I4C also focuses on capacity building through training programs for law enforcement personnel.

Future Impact and Importance

The new National Cyber Forensics Lab in Assam represents a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to tackle cybercrime. With support from the Union Government and national agencies like the I4C, Assam is set to enhance its ability to prevent, mitigate, and prosecute cybercrimes. As cyber threats continue to evolve, specialized cyber forensics labs will be crucial in safeguarding digital spaces and reducing the impact of cybercrime.

By strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure, Assam is taking a proactive approach to protecting its citizens from the growing threats in the digital world. This initiative is expected to have a substantial impact on the safety and security of the region’s digital landscape.