Cybersecurity: A broad level conversation, says Bharti Airtel CISO

Bharti Airtel's senior VP and global chief information security (CISO) Manish Tiwari states that cyber security is at the top of mind for senior management across companies as work from home and digitisation becomes the new mode of working. Airtel has also seen the demand for inbuilt 24/7 monitoring systems and shift towards cloud based and pay as one uses security models.

"Cybersecurity had in many ways become a board level conversation, but I think the manner in which it has propelled into a CEOs conversation with the Board is unprecedented in the last 12 months. There is a focussed attention on all aspects of risk management," said Tiwari at the India Mobile Congress on Wednesday.

"In fact, today, as we hear the senior management is asking their teams-are we safe or what more needs to be done, do we need to invest more," he added.

Tiwari said next that security is now about protecting the user, the device, data and now communication. With companies now allowing employees to work from home for a longer period of time, there needs to be a seamless transition, which is in turn leading to cloud adoption.

"It's going to accelerate cloud adoption. They want cloud based security solutions which allow them to implement these solutions, very quickly," he said. Takkar cites that customers who did not have a security operating centre and 24/7 monitoring system want it quickly in place.

He highlighted the shift towards adopting new age technologies - a Pay As You Use model and a shift towards productivity and security using cloud-based models, which is quick to implement.

For the senior leader of Airtel, digitization is permanent and a "one way street".

He further positively spoke on 'Data Protection Bill' that is in the works.

"The government is listening to the industry. And I think they're doing the right step they're calling. Various verticals in the industry and seeking their inputs and their feedback," said Tiwari.

He also added that it looks "positive" and hopes it will be balanced and protect the rights of citizens and give equal opportunity to both large firms and the big startup ecosystem.