Governing Bodies

Central Government Organizations

 Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

Oversees India's IT policies, including data protection and cybersecurity frameworks.
 Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
The nodal agency for handling cybersecurity incidents and coordinating response
activities.

Regulatory Authorities

 Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Enforces guidelines for data security in the banking and financial sector.
 Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
Regulates the telecom sector, including data privacy in telecommunication.
 Data Protection Authority (Proposed)
Expected under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

Key Laws and Policies

Data Protection and Privacy

 Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act)

 Introduces principles of data protection, including consent-based processing and

cross-border data transfer rules.
 Obligates data fiduciaries (entities handling personal data) to ensure security and
report breaches.

Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act)

 Governs electronic commerce, cybersecurity, and digital signatures.

 Includes provisions for the punishment of cybercrimes and compensation for data
breaches (Section 43A).

IT Rules 2021 (Intermediary and Digital Media Ethics Code)

 Mandates platforms to remove unlawful content within 36 hours.

 Requires social media platforms to appoint grievance officers and comply with takedown
requests.

Indian Contract Act, 1872

 Governs agreements involving data exchange, confidentiality, and non-disclosure.

Cybersecurity

National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP) 2013

 Aims to build a secure and resilient cyberspace.

 Advocates for public-private partnerships and cybersecurity audits.

Guidelines for Critical Information Infrastructure (CII)

 Protects CII sectors like banking, energy, and healthcare.

 Implemented by the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre
(NCIIPC).

I4C (Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre)

The I4C is a government initiative under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) established to
address and combat cybercrime in India. Act as a central hub for law enforcement agencies to
combat cybercrime. Train law enforcement personnel, prosecutors, and judicial officers in
cybercrime-related laws and procedures.

Components of I4C

 National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).

A platform for citizens to report cybercrimes, especially against women and children.
 Cybercrime Forensic Lab
To support law enforcement with technical analysis and evidence preservation.
 Threat Analytics Unit
Monitors and analyzes cyber threats, providing actionable intelligence to agencies.

Key Frameworks in Cybersecurity

1. NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

 Developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

 Five Core Functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover.
 Widely used for risk management and aligning cybersecurity with business objectives.

2. ISO/IEC 27001

 International standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).

 Focuses on protecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) of data.
 Emphasizes continual improvement and compliance.

3. COBIT (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies)

  Created by ISACA for IT governance.
 Helps organizations integrate IT security with overall business strategy.

4. MITRE ATT&CK Framework

 A knowledge base of adversary tactics and techniques.

 Used for threat modeling, detection, and incident response.

5. CIS Controls (Center for Internet Security)

 A prioritized set of 18 controls for basic cybersecurity hygiene.

 Ideal for small to medium businesses.

6. GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

 Focuses on data protection and privacy for EU citizens.

 Includes cybersecurity measures for data handling and breach management.

7. TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework)

 A methodology for enterprise IT architecture, including cybersecurity layers.

8. ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library)

 Framework for IT service management, integrating cybersecurity incident handling.

9. National Cyber Security Policy (India)

 Aims to secure India’s cyberspace with guidelines for critical infrastructure protection
and incident response.

10. Zero Trust Framework

 A security model that assumes no trust by default, even within the network.
 Focuses on strict access controls and continuous verification.
GLOBAL CERTIFICATION

1. EC-Council (International Council of E-Commerce Consultants)

EC-Council is a globally recognized certification body, particularly known for its

certifications in cybersecurity, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and incident
handling.

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, Ethical Hacking, Digital Forensics

 Key Certifications:

 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): One of the most recognized certifications for
ethical hackers.
 Certified Network Defender (CND): For network security professionals.
 Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI): Focuses on digital forensics.
 Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): For professionals dealing with incident
response and handling.

 Training Partnership: EC-Council offers Accredited Training Centers (ATCs), where

you can deliver authorized training for their certifications. As an ATC, you get access to:

 Official Courseware (books, videos, practice exams).

 Exam Vouchers: EC-Council provides exam vouchers to students, ensuring they
only need to focus on the exam itself.
 Practical Labs: Hands-on labs for students to practice and simulate real-world
cyberattack and defense scenarios.

Global Recognition: EC-Council is a globally recognized certification body, and their

certifications are widely accepted across industries

2. ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association)

Focus Area: Cybersecurity, IT Governance, Compliance, Risk Management

ISACA offers certifications in cybersecurity, IT auditing, digital forensics, and

compliance. ISACA is renowned for its CISA (Certified Information Systems
Auditor) and CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) certifications, which
are globally recognized.

 Key Certifications:

 Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Widely recognized for audit

and security professionals. Focuses on IT audit and compliance, a great fit for
students interested in audit and risk management roles.
  Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Focuses on security
management and governance. Ideal for those aiming for management roles in
information security and cybersecurity.
 Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT): For professionals
managing IT governance and risk.
 Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC): Focuses on IT
risk management. Focuses on governance of enterprise IT and is well-suited for
students looking to move into strategic IT management roles.

 Global Recognition: ISACA certifications, especially CISA and CISM, are highly
regarded in IT governance, audit, and security sectors, making them ideal for students
aiming for compliance and audit roles.
 Certification Vouchers: ISACA provides exam vouchers for certified training centers,
making it easier for students to directly sit for their exams.
 Industry Linkages: ISACA offers direct job placement services through its global
chapters and networking opportunities

3. SANS Institute (System Administration, Networking, and Security Institute)

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Incident Response

GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification) EXAM

 Key Certifications:

 GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Focuses on essential cybersecurity skills.

 GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): Specializes in incident response.
 GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA): Digital forensics certification. Ideal
for students interested in digital forensics.
 GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA): Focuses on intrusion detection and
network monitoring.

 Premium Certifications: SANS certifications are considered gold standards in the

cybersecurity industry. Companies worldwide look for professionals with GIAC
credentials, especially for incident response, digital forensics, and penetration testing
roles.
 Training Partnership: If you become a SANS partner, you can offer official training
to your students using their high-quality courseware and materials.
 Global Recognition: GIAC certifications are recognized across the world, which makes
it easy for students to get hired globally.
 SANS has an excellent network of employers globally, and they frequently organize
career fairs, providing placement opportunities for their certified professionals.
4. CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association)

 CompTIA is another globally recognized body that offers certifications in IT,

cybersecurity, and digital forensics. CompTIA’s certifications like Security+, Network+,
CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst), and CASP+ (Advanced Security Practitioner) are
highly valued in the IT industry.

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, Networking, Compliance

 Key Certifications:

 CompTIA Security+: An entry-level certification focusing on cybersecurity

fundamentals. Ideal for beginners and intermediate students in cybersecurity.
 CompTIA CySA+: Cybersecurity analyst certification. For students aiming for
roles in cybersecurity analysis and threat detection.
 CompTIA CASP+: Advanced Security Practitioner certification for senior-level
cybersecurity professionals. For students pursuing advanced roles in IT security
and compliance.
 CompTIA Network+: A foundational certification in networking.

 Global Recognition: CompTIA certifications are widely recognized in cybersecurity

and IT networks. They are valuable for those entering the field as well as those
advancing their careers.

5. Cisco Systems

 Focus Area: Networking and Cybersecurity

 Key Certifications:

 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A foundational certification for

networking professionals.
 Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: Focuses on cybersecurity operations and
monitoring.
 Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE): A higher-level certification for
advanced networking and cybersecurity professionals.

 Global Recognition: Cisco certifications are considered highly valuable in the

networking and cybersecurity industries, particularly for professionals working with
Cisco equipment and technology.
6. Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)

 Focus Area: Cloud Security, Compliance, Risk Management

 Key Certifications:

 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Joint certification with

(ISC)² focusing on cloud security.
 Cloud Security Governance & Risk Management: Training on managing
cloud security and compliance.

 Global Recognition: CSA is a global non-profit organization that focuses on cloud

security and cloud compliance. Their certifications are recognized worldwide,
especially for those working in cloud environments.

7. (ISC) ² (International Information System Security Certification Consortium)

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, Compliance, Risk Management

 Key Certifications:

 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): One of the

most respected certifications for experienced cybersecurity professionals.
 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): A globally recognized
certification for cloud security.
 Certified Authorization Professional (CAP): Focuses on risk management
and compliance.
 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP): An entry-level
certification for security practitioners.

 Global Recognition: (ISC)² is one of the top governing bodies in cybersecurity and
information security, and its certifications (particularly CISSP) are highly respected by
employers worldwide.

IN SHORT

 EC-Council (CEH, CND, CFI)

 ISACA (CISA, CISM)
 (ISC)² (CISSP, CCSP)
 CompTIA (Security+, CySA+)
 SANS GIAC (GSEC, GCIH)

The average cost of an exam voucher for most certifications in bulk may range from ₹30,000
to ₹1, 00,000 INR per student, depending on the body and certification.
Global Certification Comparison

Certification Focus Areas Key Eligibility Criteria Average Other Details

Body Certifications Cost
(INR)
EC-Council Cybersecurity, CEH, CND, Basic knowledge of Exam: Globally
Ethical CFI, GCIH IT/Networking; CEH ₹35,000 - recognized
Hacking, requires 2 years’ ₹90,000; certifications;
Digital experience or Training: Hands-on labs
Forensics completion of official ₹1,50,000 and practical
training. learning
offered
through
ATCs.
ISACA Cybersecurity, CISA, CISM, 5 years of work Exam: Known for IT
IT CRISC, experience in relevant ₹50,000 - governance
Governance, CGEIT domains (waivers ₹60,000; and audit
Risk available based on Training: certifications;
Management education). ₹1,20,000 Networking
+ and job
placement
through
global
chapters.
SANS Cybersecurity, GSEC, GCIH, No specific Exam: Considered
Institute Digital GCFA, GCIA prerequisites; ₹80,000 - gold standard
(GIAC) Forensics experience in ₹1,20,000; in
cybersecurity is Training: cybersecurity;
beneficial. ₹3,00,000 Premium
+ pricing
reflects global
recognition
and placement
support.
CompTIA IT, Security+, No prerequisites; Exam: Best for
Cybersecurity, CySA+, entry-level ₹25,000 - foundational
Networking CASP+, certifications are ₹50,000; knowledge;
Network+ beginner-friendly. Training: Widely
₹50,000+ recognized
across IT and
cybersecurity
industries.
Cisco Networking, CCNA, Varies by level; Exam: Highly
Systems Cybersecurity CyberOps CCNA is entry-level, ₹25,000 - valuable in
Associate, CCIE requires ₹80,000; networking
CCIE advanced networking Training: and Cisco-
experience. ₹50,000+ specific
technologies;
CCIE is
among the
 most
prestigious
certs.
Cloud Cloud CCSP, Cloud Basic understanding Exam: Recognized
Security Security, Risk Security of cloud security; ₹50,000+; for cloud-
Alliance Management Governance & CCSP requires at Training: specific
Risk least 5 years’ IT ₹1,50,000 expertise;
Management experience (waivers + Joint
possible). certifications
with (ISC)²
add
credibility.
(ISC)² Cybersecurity, CISSP, CCSP, CISSP requires 5 Exam: Known for
Risk CAP, SSCP years of experience; ₹55,000 - CISSP, a top-
Management SSCP and CAP are ₹75,000; tier
beginner/intermediate Training: certification
certifications. ₹1,00,000 for advanced
+ cybersecurity
professionals;
Broad global
reach.

Key Takeaways

1. Entry-Level Options:

 CompTIA Security+ and Cisco CCNA are ideal for beginners.

 (ISC) ² SSCP is also a good starting point for security practitioners.

2. Advanced Certifications:

 CISSP (from (ISC) ²), CCIE (from Cisco), and GIAC certifications are highly
respected for experienced professionals.

3. Cost-Effective Choices:

 CompTIA and Cisco offer affordable entry-level certifications.

 SANS certifications are expensive but globally esteemed in cybersecurity.

4. Cloud-Specific Expertise:

 CSA and CCSP (by (ISC) ² and CSA) are ideal for professionals focusing on cloud
security.
Which Certifications Are Best for Enhancing Student Employability?

The most widely recognized and valuable certifications for enhancing student employability
globally are:

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (EC-Council) – Ideal for those starting a career in
cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
2. CompTIA Security+ – A great entry-level certification for a career in cybersecurity.
3. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) (ISACA) – Highly respected in audit
and governance roles.
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) (ISACA) – Excellent for managerial
roles in information security.
5. GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) (SANS) – Great for building a solid foundation in
cybersecurity.
6. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Essential for networking and network
security professionals.
7. AWS Certified Security – Specialty – Highly valuable for cloud security roles.

National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT)

 Overview: NIELIT, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

(MeitY), provides certifications in various fields, including cybersecurity, digital
forensics, and information security.
 Global Recognition: NIELIT certifications are recognized across India and in many
parts of the world, especially in public sector organizations and government projects.

International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)

 Focus Area: Privacy, Data Protection, Compliance

 Key Certifications:

 Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP): Specializes in data

privacy laws and regulations.
 Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM): Focuses on managing data
privacy within organizations.
 Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT): Focuses on privacy and
security from a technical perspective.

 Global Recognition: IAPP is the leading organization for data privacy certifications,
especially those related to GDPR, CCPA, and other international privacy regulations.

9. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

  Focus Area: Cybersecurity Standards, Digital Forensics, Risk Management,
Compliance
 Key Contributions:

 NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Widely used by companies and governments

for cybersecurity risk management.
 NIST SP 800-53: A catalog of security and privacy controls for federal
information systems.
 NIST Digital Forensics: Provides guidelines and standards for digital forensics
practices.

 Global Recognition: NIST is a U.S. government agency, but its frameworks and
standards are widely adopted internationally by public and private organizations for
cybersecurity and compliance.

10. European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA)

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, EU Regulations, Digital Forensics

 Key Contributions:

 ENISA works on cybersecurity standards and policies within the European

Union.
 It develops and promotes best practices, cybersecurity certifications, and
guidelines for digital forensics, cyber resilience, and incident handling.

 Global Recognition: ENISA’s guidelines are increasingly recognized internationally,

especially in the context of European GDPR and EU cybersecurity regulations.

11. National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC - UK)

 Focus Area: Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Compliance (UK)

 Key Contributions:

 Develops cybersecurity standards, frameworks, and guides for organizations,

especially in the UK.
 Provides guidance on digital forensics and investigations, focusing on
protecting data, infrastructure, and networks.

 Global Recognition: While based in the UK, NCSC is recognized worldwide for its
contributions to cybersecurity governance, incident handling, and best practices.

12. Federal Trade Commission (FTC - US)

 Focus Area: Compliance, Data Privacy, Cybersecurity

 Key Contributions:
  The FTC enforces data privacy and cybersecurity compliance rules in the U.S.
and works on best practices for digital forensics and data security.

 Global Recognition: The FTC’s guidelines and enforcement actions have a broad impact
on compliance laws and best practices globally, especially in areas like consumer
protection and data breach response.

Global Certifications: CIBP (US), CIBPE (Europe), CIBPA (Australia), and

CIBPC (Canada)

Aspect CIBP (US) CIBPE (Europe) CIBPA CIBPC (Canada)

(Australia)
Regional US-centric EU-specific laws Australian Canadian trade
Focus global business (e.g., GDPR), cross- trade laws, laws,
practices, border trade, and EU CPTPP USMCA/NAFTA,
regulatory economic policies. agreements, and PIPEDA
frameworks and compliance.
like Sarbanes- compliance
Oxley (SOX). with local
regulations.
Data CCPA, HIPAA, Strong focus on Australian Personal
Privacy and and FTC GDPR and ePrivacy Privacy Information
Protection guidelines. directives for Principles Protection and
Emphasizes US handling EU citizens' (APPs) under Electronic
business data. the Privacy Documents Act
practices for Act 1988. (PIPEDA).
global privacy.
Business US trade laws EU trade Covers Focuses on
and Trade (ITAR/EAR), frameworks, customs Australian NAFTA/USMCA
Laws export-import union rules, and CE export laws, trade, tax laws, and
compliance, marking for goods. biosecurity, industry-specific
anti-corruption and regulations.
(FCPA). environmental
compliance.
Industry IT, healthcare, Energy, Mining, Forestry, mining,
Focus manufacturing, telecommunications, agriculture, energy, and
and financial and services sector. renewable advanced
services. energy, and manufacturing.
startups.
Career Roles in global Data protection Export-import NAFTA/USMCA-
Applications trade, officers, trade managers, focused trade
compliance, compliance compliance specialists, privacy
data privacy, specialists, cross- officers, and officers, and
and market border strategists. consultants for contractors.
expansion. specific
sectors.
Certifying Likely a US- EU-recognized Australian Canadian body
Body based authority focusing on certifying aligned with
organization GDPR and authority PIPEDA and North
aligned with international specializing in American trade
federal laws compliance. local and agreements.
and ISO international
standards. treaties.
Global Aligned with GDPR, ePrivacy, CPTPP and NAFTA/USMCA
Alignment ISO 27001, and EU-specific regional trade and cross-border
SOX, and directives. policies. data protection
international laws.
standards for
export and
trade.

 CIBP (US): Ideal for US businesses focusing on global expansion and compliance with
US-centric regulations.
 CIBPE (Europe): Best for roles requiring expertise in GDPR and EU business
frameworks.
 CIBPA (Australia): Focuses on industries like mining and agriculture and Australian-
specific trade agreements.
 CIBPC (Canada): Tailored for professionals managing trade and compliance within
North America.