Gone are the days when cybercrime used to be a small concern, but now it has become a major threat not only for businesses but also for individuals and governments alike. Hackers can steal your Instagram or YouTube accounts or take personal information without you knowing. The question is no longer whether you can be hacked, but how we can be more aware and protect ourselves from hackers. It’s all about how to stay safe online. We connected with cybersecurity expert Nitin Pandey to learn more about this world. He also helps us understand that cyber threats are evolving like anything, therefore simple precautions like strong passwords, two-factor authentication and being careful about what we share online can make a big difference.
The Early Journey Into Cybersecurity
Curiosity is something that makes us explore the unexplored. The same happened with Nitin. His curiosity for the cyber world and a desire to understand technology made him enter this field. His curiosity started in 2005, during a time when internet access was limited and learning resources were scarce. Back then, hacking wasn’t understood by many and information on cybersecurity was difficult to come by. Yet, Nitin decided to take this path and explore more about it.
Over the years, Nitin expanded his knowledge by collaborating with global platforms such as DEFCON and OWASP, which are recognised for cybersecurity conferences and research. He has trained law enforcement agencies in Sri Lanka, provided guidance to corporate clients across India, and represented the nation at international cyber summits in Russia.
The Invisible Threat
Many people assume cybercrime only targets large organisations, but individuals are equally vulnerable. Banks, social media platforms, and government advisories constantly remind users about strong passwords and online vigilance. Yet, the threats are often invisible.
“Your Instagram or WhatsApp account might be compromised and you wouldn’t even know it until it’s too late,” Nitin warns. “Being online means leaving a footprint. And every footprint can be traced, tracked, and exploited.”
The post-COVID era has added complexity. Apps like TikTok and PUBG faced bans due to security concerns, demonstrating how geopolitical and technological factors intersect, often impacting individual users directly.
Personal Data Is The New Currency
Nitin believes one of the biggest mistakes users make is underestimating how much personal data they share online.
“Every click, every post, every app permission you grant is a piece of your personal puzzle,” he explains. “Hackers are not just after your passwords, they’re after your identity.”
Despite awareness, human behaviour remains the weakest link. Oversharing vacation plans or routine schedules can give cybercriminals easy access. “We often think, ‘It won’t happen to me,’” says Nitin. “But that’s exactly what hackers count on. Awareness is your first defence.”
He gives practical advice to everyone. Limit app permissions, update software regularly, and adopt multi-factor authentication (MFA). Nitin adds, “MFA is a shield. It gives you an extra layer of security.”
Nitin also explains that the biggest challenge today is data breaches. “Take DG Locker, for example, where we store all our government IDs like PAN, Aadhaar, and passport. If that data is breached, all personal information can be exposed. Even small examples, like retrieving details from an official number, show how easily information can be hacked, even when people follow basic precautions.”
“It is not people’s fault. Sometimes, sharing information is mandatory. Yet, platforms are not always held accountable when data is leaked. This is where the DPDP Act, 2023, comes in. Modelled on Europe’s GDPR, it focuses on data protection and digital privacy. Once implemented, companies will be liable for breaches, and penalties could be imposed if personal information, even something as common as email IDs, is leaked. Until then, awareness and caution are the only defences individuals have against the growing cyber threat landscape.”
Unsafe Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is convenient but risky. Open networks can allow attackers to intercept sensitive data, including banking details.
“If you’re using public Wi-Fi without a VPN, you’re essentially shouting your data into the void,” Nitin explains. “Securing networks with WPA2/WPA3 encryption, strong passwords, and VPNs can prevent most attacks. Regular firmware updates are equally essential.”
How AI Is Helping Scammers
Nitin Pandey says that cybercrime has become much more advanced with AI. “AI has become a powerful tool for scammers, making their work easier,” he explains. Scammers can now collect personal information like your date of birth, PAN, or Aadhaar number, and pretend to be legitimate customer support. “When someone knows this much about you, it looks real. AI has made scams much smarter,” he adds. Even calls and messages can seem official, making it easier for people to get tricked.
But all is not lost. Nitin says that if your accounts on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp are hacked, reporting quickly can help recover them. “Platforms can track unknown logins, reset passwords, and give your account back, but delays, like weekends, can make it harder,” he warns. He also sees hope in cyber insurance, like health or car insurance. “When cyber insurance is available, people should take it. It will be an important step to stay safe online,” he says.
Looking Ahead
The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving rapidly. AI, IoT, and cloud computing expand both opportunities and vulnerabilities. Nitin stresses that “It’s high time we understand how to stay safe online. We must adapt, learn, and stay vigilant because these threats will never stop attacking us.”
Quick Takeaways:
- Everyone can be hacked, not just big companies.
- Don’t overshare online and be careful with app permissions.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi or use a VPN to stay safe.
- Scammers use AI to trick people with fake calls and messages.
- Cyber threats keep changing, so stay alert and careful online.
Must Read:
