Global Cyber Pulse:  01 October, 2024

Cyber Attack
October 1, 2024 | Cybersecurity
By Ashwani Mishra, Editor-Technology, 63SATS

National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) takes charge of cybersecurity coordination in India, SEBI penalizes NSE Data and Analytics for cybersecurity lapses, Patelco Credit Union breach impacts over 1 million, only 2% of companies achieve full cyber resilience, and AFP cyberattack disrupts client services—stay tuned for more updates during this Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

NSCS Takes Charge of Cybersecurity Coordination in India

The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) has become the central agency for addressing rising cybersecurity threats. PM Narendra Modi oversees the NSCS, with NSA Ajit Doval as the secretary. The NSCS will provide strategic direction and coordination for cybersecurity across India.

According to the new directive, ministries of telecom, IT, and home have defined responsibilities: telecom for network security, IT for cybersecurity, and home for cybercrime. This structured approach aims to eliminate duplication and ambiguities in combating cyber threats.

SEBI Imposes Penalty on NSE Data and Analytics for Cybersecurity Lapses

Market regulator SEBI fined NSE Data and Analytics Ltd (formerly DotEx) Rs 12 lakhs for non-compliance in areas like cybersecurity audit, business continuity policy, and delayed acknowledgments.

The penalties highlight the importance of stringent adherence to cybersecurity and audit protocols.

Patelco Credit Union Breach Impacts Over 1 Million

Patelco Credit Union, based in Northern California, faced a major data breach affecting over 1 million individuals after a ransomware attack in July. Personal information, including names, Social Security numbers, and email addresses, was compromised. Patelco offers two years of free identity protection for affected customers.

Only 2% of Companies Achieve Full Cyber Resilience

According to PwC’s 2025 Digital Trust Insights survey, only 2% of companies have full cyber resilience. Despite 77% planning budget increases, a lack of CISO authority hinders progress. Major concerns include cloud threats, third-party breaches, and connected product attacks.

Texas Hospital System Diverts Patients Amid Ransomware Attack

University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas, is diverting ambulances after a ransomware attack. IT systems were impacted, forcing temporary redirection of emergency patients. Specialists are engaged, but the timeline for recovery remains uncertain.

AFP Cyberattack Disrupts Client Services

Global news agency AFP faced a cyberattack, affecting IT systems and some client services. AFP’s IT team, supported by France’s cybersecurity agency, is addressing the issue. The nature and perpetrators of the attack remain unknown.