Protecting Yourself Online: A Conversation with Harshal Deshmukh from Digidata
From Accounting to Building a Tech-Driven Business
Harshal’s career began in accounting, where he worked for 14 years at his family’s chartered accountancy firm. However, in 2014, his passion for technology inspired him to establish DigiData. Initially, the company focused on data processing for cooperative banks, but as digital threats increased, Harshal shifted his focus to cybersecurity and forensic investigation. Today, Harshal plays a critical role in protecting businesses and individuals from online risks, underscoring the importance of cybersecurity.
The Increasing Threat of Cybercrime
During the conversation, Harshal highlighted the rise in cybercrime incidents, including phishing attacks, OTP scams, and social media fraud. These attacks are becoming more sophisticated and frequent. Hackers exploit personal information shared online to target individuals and businesses alike, demonstrating the critical need for cybersecurity measures.
Harshal emphasized that online users must be cautious with the information they share on social platforms. Accepting requests only from people you know and using strong, complex passwords are essential practices to stay safe. As digital interactions grow, these threats can affect anyone, making vigilance more important than ever.
Practical Advice for Staying Safe Online
To mitigate these risks, Harshal offered several useful tips. He advised using long, complex passwords with symbols and numbers and updating them regularly. Another important step is using different phone numbers for banking and personal use to avoid exposing sensitive data. These practices are crucial defenses in personal cybersecurity.
Additionally, Harshal warned about scanning QR codes from untrusted sources, as these can redirect users to harmful websites. Simple preventive measures can help individuals avoid these seemingly small, yet dangerous, online risks.
DigiData’s Approach to Cybersecurity
DigiData offers a comprehensive range of services designed to protect both businesses and individuals from cyber threats. From data protection to cybersecurity training, DigiData ensures that clients have the tools needed to safeguard their digital assets. As a certified Cybercrime Intervention Officer (CCIO), Harshal also assists cybercrime victims by guiding them through the process of reporting incidents and recovering from attacks. The emphasis on cybersecurity is evident in all aspects of their service.
DigiData’s partnership with Ofofo further enhances its ability to provide top-tier protection, combining resources to address the increasing complexity of today’s digital environment.
The Role of Data Protection and Cybersecurity in the Future
Looking ahead, Harshal discussed the growing importance of data protection as privacy regulations tighten. He emphasized that businesses must prioritize appointing Data Protection Officers (DPOs) to ensure that their handling of sensitive information complies with new laws, such as the DPDP Act. As the regulatory landscape becomes more complex, companies must balance security and privacy to remain compliant. The future will demand even stronger cybersecurity measures.
Harshal believes that data is becoming the most valuable asset, and protecting it will be one of the greatest challenges moving forward. DigiData’s expertise in securing information and ensuring compliance will be essential for businesses facing these new challenges.
In conclusion, the rise of cybercrime highlights the urgent need for individuals and businesses to prioritize cybersecurity. Harshal Deshmukh’s insights underline the importance of practical steps like using strong passwords and being cautious with personal information. Additionally, working with trusted partners like DigiData can significantly reduce exposure to cyber threats and ensure a more secure digital environment.
