Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar organised a cyber security awareness session for students of the Department of Civil Engineering to sensitise them to the safe, responsible and secure use of digital technologies.
The session was conducted by Dr Vivek, Assistant Professor, who covered cyber hygiene, online safety, password security, phishing, social engineering attacks, protection of personal data, safe use of social media and responsible use of digital platforms. Students were advised to stay vigilant against suspicious links, messages, emails and applications and to adopt secure digital practices in their daily lives.
The programme ended with an interactive discussion in which students raised queries on cyber fraud, online safety and the protection of personal information. “Cyber security is not only a technical issue but a daily responsibility. Students must develop the habit of verifying links, protecting passwords and personal information, and remaining alert to online frauds,” Dr Vivek said.
In his message, Director NIT Srinagar Prof. Anurag Kumar Misra emphasised the importance of creating a digitally aware and security-conscious student community. “Along with academic and technical knowledge, our students must understand the responsibilities that come with the use of digital technologies. Cyber awareness will enable them to use digital platforms safely and responsibly in their academic, professional and personal lives,” he said.
Head of the Department of Civil Engineering Prof. Javaid Bhat said such awareness was essential as students increasingly depend on digital platforms for education, communication and professional activities. “A strong culture of cyber awareness can help students recognise online threats and make responsible digital choices. Awareness and vigilance are the first line of defence against cyber fraud,” he said.
Cyber fraud has emerged as one of the fastest growing forms of crime in India, with phishing messages, fake links and impersonation scams targeting people of every age group. Students are particularly exposed because they spend long hours online, use multiple platforms and often share personal details on social media without considering how that information can be misused.
Experts recommend a few simple habits to stay safe. These include using strong and unique passwords for each account, enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding clicking on links from unknown senders, installing applications only from trusted sources, and being cautious about sharing personal information online. Anyone who becomes a victim of online fraud is advised to report it immediately through the national cyber crime helpline 1930 or the cybercrime.gov.in portal, since early reporting improves the chances of recovering lost money.
By holding such sessions within individual departments, the institute is trying to build awareness among future engineers who will themselves design and manage digital systems. A student who understands the risks, officials believe, is better placed to build secure technology and to protect others.
