The Indian government's reported notice to Meta regarding username-related risks is a strategic move to curb cyber fraud and impersonation by malicious actors, according to Neehar Pathare, Managing Director, CEO and CIO of 63SATS Cybertech. Speaking on the sidelines of the Cyber 360 Degrees Summit, Pathare highlighted that the current username system, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis, is vulnerable to exploitation.
Username System Exploited for Impersonation
Pathare explained that anyone can claim a username without verification, creating opportunities for impersonation. "So username is something that you decide. It's the fastest finger first. So anyone who blocks a high-profile person's name could have that username first," he said. This flaw allows threat actors to assume identities and demand money or commit fraud.
The government's notice reportedly gives Meta three days to respond. "We'll wait and watch. It's under three days is the time to reply. We are eagerly waiting for that," Pathare added.
Protecting Critical Infrastructure from AI-Driven Threats
Discussions at the summit also focused on safeguarding India's critical infrastructure from rapidly evolving cyber threats, particularly those powered by artificial intelligence. Pathare noted that operational technology (OT) systems, often 20 years old, are vulnerable to AI-accelerated attacks. "If you see, critical infrastructure works on OT, and OT is a very legacy old equipment. Some of the equipments are 20 years old. People do not want to change it, but the cyber attacks which are happening on them are at lightning speed because of AI," he said.
Cybersecurity as a Balance Sheet Issue
Pathare emphasized that cybersecurity should no longer be seen solely as an IT responsibility. "The boards and CEOs should know cyber security is not an IT task, it's a balance sheet task. If any attack happens on a company, it directly affects the balance sheet," he said. This shift in perspective is crucial for organizational resilience.
Rising Threats on Mobile Devices
Pathare also pointed out that cyber threats are increasingly targeting smartphones. "More than your desktop or laptop, which is usually used in corporates, is already protected. Your next threat vector is your handset, your mobile handset," he warned. He noted that phishing and QR code-based scams are on the rise, making mobile security solutions essential.
