Topic: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security;
6. While India needs to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities, focusing solely on building cyber weapons for deterrence may not be the most prudent approach. Critically Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: ft.com , Insights on India
Why the question:
A criminal gang with Russian-speaking members has carried out a widespread hack that has compromised the personal data of tens of thousands of employees at major British companies. The hack is expected to extend to the United States, affecting more victims.
Key Demand of the question:
To debate if India should its increase cyberwarfare capabilities to achieve deterrence.
Directive word:
Critically analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining cyber-warfare.
Body:
In the first part, mention the various kinds of cyber weapons – Viruses, phishing, computer worms and malware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, hacking, spyware or cyber espionage, ransomware and propaganda or disinformation campaigns etc.
Next, argue the impact Cyber warfare can have on our country. Substantiate with examples. Aruge for building cyber armament directly by the state.
Next. Argue on the other side as to unconventional nature of cyber warfare, lack of proper accountability and training etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by passing a judgement on whether or not India should to work towards building cyber warfare deterrents.
