All posts by Praveen

Protecting Data at Rest- An Important Consideration for Organizations Seeking Cybersecurity Solutions

Protecting Data at Rest- An Important Consideration for Organizations Seeking Cybersecurity Solutions

Harikrishna Prabhu

Chief Operations Officer (COO),TechnoBind Solutions

The battleground for cyber threats has surpassed traditional network vulnerabilities to reach the troves of stored data. As organizations struggle with the imperative of safeguarding their digital assets, the focus on protecting data at rest emerges as a critical consideration.

Let’s explore the intricate facets of data security concerning data at rest, uncovering why stored data is a tempting target for cyber threats and the significant impact of its compromise. From the escalating risks faced by midsize and small enterprises to the imperative of robust security measures, join us as we navigate the complex terrain of data protection in an era fraught with cyber peril.

The Critical Importance of Safeguarding Data at Rest

In an era marked by escalating cyber threats, the imperative to safeguard data at rest emerges as paramount. According to IBM’s latest Cost of Data Breach report, cyber-attacks have reached an all-time high, with the average breach resulting in losses soaring to $4.45 million, a staggering 15% increase over three years. Shockingly, over 80% of data breaches in 2023 involved data stored in the cloud, highlighting the precarious nature of digital assets. Furthermore, it’s estimated that more than 60% of corporate data resides in the cloud, making it a prime target for malicious actors.

Despite these daunting statistics, organizations can’t afford to succumb to cyber fatigue, which affects as much as 42% of companies. The consequences of complacency are dire, especially when considering the exorbitant costs associated with data breaches. However, there’s a silver lining amidst the gloom: companies investing in privacy initiatives reap substantial rewards. Cisco reports that over 40% of companies witness benefits at least double their privacy spend, underscoring the tangible returns on privacy investment.

Moreover, the urgency to bolster defenses is underscored by the financial burdens incurred in regulatory compliance. A staggering 88% of companies expended over $1 million preparing for GDPR compliance, signaling the substantial resources allocated to mitigate regulatory risks. Thus, the need to fortify protection measures for data at rest transcends mere compliance; it’s of strategic importance for organizations seeking cybersecurity solutions.

Businesses Can Effectively Secure Data at Rest

Data at rest holds the keys to a company’s most valuable assets, making its protection paramount in safeguarding against cyber threats. By fortifying defenses around resting data, businesses shield themselves from potential breaches, ensuring continuity and trust in an ever-evolving digital landscape. While data encryption, data loss prevention and cloud-based firewalls can be effective ways to secure data at rest, Thales’ CipherTrust Data Security Platform has emerged as a true pioneer in leading the data protection game.

The CipherTrust Data Security Platform offers a unified approach to data-centric security, encompassing:

  • This sophisticated data security platform helps effortlessly locate and classify sensitive data across diverse storage environments, ensuring compliance and preempting potential breaches.
  • Safeguarding sensitive information through robust encryption and tokenization, CipherTrust Data Security bolstered by secure key management, fortifies defenses against unauthorized access.
  • This platform helps exercise granular control over data access and encryption key management, enabling comprehensive monitoring, detection, and enforcement of security policies across hybrid cloud environments.

In conclusion, keeping data safe while it’s resting is crucial for any organization. By embracing a strategic approach that combines cutting-edge technologies like Thales’ CipherTrust Data Security Platform with stringent best practices, organizations can fortify their digital fortresses and mitigate the existential risks posed by data breaches. As organizations navigate this complex terrain, one thing remains certain: the protection of data at rest isn’t merely a consideration—it’s a crucial imperative that underpins the integrity, reputation, and longevity of every enterprise in the digital age.

Portronics Launches Dash 8 BT Speakers with Karaoke Mic and RGB Lights

New Delhi, March 28, 2024: Portronics, India’s most loved gadgets brand, has introduced the Portronics Dash 8, the perfect companion for your parties, festivities and family gatherings. The Dash 8 is a powerful Bluetooth V5.3 speaker that is equipped with pulsating RGB lights on its front panel that will brighten up House parties, whether indoor or outdoor.

Portronics Launches Dash 8 BT Speakers with Karaoke Mic and RGB Lights

The Portronics Dash 8 consists of a 2-inch tweeter and a 5.25-inch subwoofer driver that produce powerful, crystal-clear sound—at 60W output—across the aural spectrum. You also get a Bass Boost button that enhances the lows—with a simple double tap—to create an even more immersive sound stage. Apart from Bluetooth it also supports wired connection including- USB Flash Drive, AUX In, and a dedicated karaoke mic port. In case that is not enough, the TWS mode will let party revelers connect to a second Dash 8 to double the output.

A control panel on the speaker lets users adjust volume, manage music playback, and cycle through six different RGB light profiles to jazz up the ambience. The speaker also comes with a microphone for whenever you want to break into karaoke sessions midway through the House party.

The Dash 8 sports a sturdy build that is resistant to water splashes thanks to its IPX5 rating, so parties can be held by the pool without fear of damage. Its portable design includes a handle that allows users to change its location easily. On the battery front, the Dash 8 will power through a party for six straight hours before needing a recharge via its USB Type-C fast-charging port.

Pricing & Availability:

The Portronics Dash 8 can be purchased from the company’s official website Portronics.com at an introductory discounted price of just INR 7,199, with a 12-month warranty. The products mentioned here can also be bought from Amazon.in and other offline stores as well.

DPS RN Extension Hosts Prep Graduation Ceremony for Tiny Tots

DPS RN Extension organized ‘Prep Graduation Ceremony’ for the budding learners of Grade Prep. The ceremony marked the promotion of the toddlers to primary, leading them one step ahead in school life.

DPS RN Extension Hosts Prep Graduation Ceremony for Tiny Tots

The programme commenced with the lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a spellbinding dance performance by the toddlers of the Grade Nursery. Another heart-stealing performance was the Graduation song presentation, followed by a mesmerizing finale dance by the young ones of Grade Prep. The programme culminated with a vote of thanks from Headmistress, Mrs. Priyanca Ghosh.

Mrs. Pallavi Upadhyaya, Principal, DPS RN Extension, expressed, “It was a proud moment for parents and the school to witness the happiness on the gleaming faces of our little ones, dressed in Graduation robes and caps while receiving the graduation certificates. Our school feels proud to help shape these children into confident individuals and see them complete an essential phase of their educational journey. We look forward to continuing our legacy of fostering intellectual and personal growth.”

ESAF Small Finance Bank opened Retail Asset Hub in New Delhi

ESAF Small Finance Bank, one of the leading small finance banks in India, has opened its Retail Asset Hub in New Delhi. The asset hub is expected to facilitate seamless collaboration among various teams – Business, Credit, and Operations. The establishment of Retail Asset Hub marks an important milestone in ESAF Small Finance Bank’s expansion strategy and demonstrates its vision of providing accessible financial services across the country.

ESAF Small Finance Bank opened Retail Asset Hub in New Delhi

John Samuel, Non-Executive Nominee Director of ESAF Small Finance Bank, inaugurated the Retail Asset Hub. Among the distinguished guests was Hemant Tamta, Executive Vice President, Shubhankar Sengupta, Sr. Vice President, ESAF Small Finance Bank, and Jata Shankar Mishra, BBH NW2 marked the commencement of the event. Durgeshwar Mishra, Managing Director of Shubh Lakshmi Finance, customers from MSME, Mobility, and Mortgage product segments, along with DSAs and vendors. During the event, sanction letters were handed over to customers across different product categories, symbolizing the bank’s commitment to meeting their financial needs.

Photo Caption: John Samuel, Non-Executive Nominee Director of ESAF Small Finance Bank, inaugurating the Retail Asset Hub. Hemant Tamta, Executive Vice President, Shubhankar Sengupta, Sr. Vice President, ESAF Small Finance Bank, and Jata Shankar Mishra, BBH NW2 were also seen.

8 Key Components and Benefits of Financial Wellness Programs for Salaried Individuals

In today’s fast-paced work environment, where financial stress is a common concern, employers are increasingly turning to financial wellness programs to support their employees. These programs offer a range of benefits aimed at empowering salaried individuals to manage their finances effectively.

Let’s delve into the key components and advantages of implementing such initiatives:

● Financial Education and Training:
Workshops, seminars, and online resources provide essential knowledge on budgeting, debt management, saving, investing basics, retirement planning, and tax planning.

● Personalized Financial Counseling:
One-on-one sessions with certified financial planners offer tailored guidance on debt repayment, investment review, and retirement planning, addressing individual concerns.

● Access to Financial Tools and Resources:
Providing financial planning tools, budgeting apps, and online resources enables employees to track expenses, set goals, and make informed decisions about their finances.

● Debt Management Assistance:
Support with managing debt effectively, including strategies for paying off high-interest debt and avoiding debt traps, helps alleviate financial burdens and promotes stability.

● Integration with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):
Incorporating financial wellness components into existing EAPs offers comprehensive support, including counselling services, legal aid, and financial planning assistance.

● Retirement Planning and Savings Programs:
Educating employees about retirement savings and offering workshops, employer-sponsored plans, and incentives like matching contributions encourages long-term financial security.

● Incentives and Rewards:
Implementing recognition programs, matching contributions, bonuses, or prizes incentivizes employee engagement with financial wellness initiatives, fostering a culture of responsibility.

Regular Financial Check-ins and Assessments:
Periodic assessments allow employees to evaluate progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust financial strategies, while also enabling employers to refine programs based on feedback. In conclusion, financial wellness programs play a vital role in promoting the overall well-being and productivity of salaried individuals. By providing the necessary tools and support to navigate financial challenges effectively, employers contribute to the success and sustainability of both their workforce and organization as a whole.

Slugging: Understanding the science behind the overnight skincare trend

Social media platforms are inundated with lifestyle and beauty advice. Now and then, a new trend emerges and takes the platform by storm. Slugging is one of those beauty trends that first emerged on some social media platforms and instantly became a part of many people’s nightly skincare routines.

Though the trend has gained immense traction in recent years, thanks to social media, the practice of slugging is not new. It is obvious to question the effectiveness since it is popularised through social media platforms, but the process of slugging does work for some.

The viral trend, which comes from the South Korean beauty world, involves slathering the face with a thin layer of rich ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor at the end of the nightly skincare routine. These occlusive products prevent water loss, thereby imparting a ‘slug-like’ sheen to the skin. It makes the face look dewy, plump and hydrated.

The skin generally appears dull or dry when its top layer, also called the skin barrier, lacks the balance of keratinocytes (skin cells) and lipids. When the skin barrier gets damaged due to sun exposure, pollution, over-exfoliation and other factors, the lipids or the glue that keeps the outer layer intact starts depleting. This leads to water loss, leaving the skin dry and flaky.

Occlusives, used for slugging, rest on the surface of the skin, acting as a shield to prevent trans-epidermal water loss. They eventually make the skin look fresh and hydrated. Occlusives have nothing to do with moisturising, as the skin cannot absorb petroleum. They simply lock in the water, helping the skin retain moisture. Considering the process helps prevent water loss, slugging is ideal for those with dry skin. But it may not be suitable for naturally oily or, acne-prone skin, as occlusives may clog the pores, leading to irritation and increased risk of breakout. This night time routine is extremely beneficial for older people as the problem of water loss spikes with age.

However, one must not overdo it and should listen to the skin when including this routine in their daily skincare regime. In winter months, the frequency can be increased as the skin loses water easily due to dry and harsh weather. In the summer and rainy months, the process should be limited to once or twice in a week. This is because in the hotter months, the skin naturally produces more oil, and the rainy season is often accompanied by extreme humidity, causing the skin to produce excessive oil.

Above all, it should be done correctly for maximum effectiveness and to reduce the chances of any side-effects. The skin works harder at night time to repair itself, so slugging at night is the best way to get maximum output. One must start by cleaning the skin properly to avoid any dust or germs getting trapped in the outer layer. After that comes moisturising, followed by applying a thin layer of Vaseline or an occlusive of your choice. In the morning, cleanse the skin to remove any excess product and carry on with the normal daytime skincare routine. Without proper moisturisation, slugging won’t be effective. In the case of sensitive skin, avoid slugging with retinoids as it may lead to irritation.

Slugging is safe and has been recommended by experts for decades. It is an affordable and effective method to restore skin moisture. The only thing one must consider is the type of occlusives used for slugging.

Coriander Kitchen’s Springtime Splendour: Easter Brunch at Conrad Pune

As we embrace the joyous spirit of Easter, we are thrilled to invite you to indulge in our delightful Easter Brunch celebration at Coriander Kitchen. We have curated a menu brimming with seasonal flavours and culinary delights that are sure to elevate your Easter experience. Join us in raising a glass to the arrival of spring and the spirit of renewal with our exquisite menu.

Coriander Kitchen's Springtime Splendour: Easter Brunch at Conrad Pune

Indulge in the freshness of Lobster, Scampi, Poached Prawn, and Crab. Savor the unique flavours of Lamb Terrine, Chicken Roulade, Duck, Squid, Frutti di mare, Pork Belly, and Duet of Salmon. Enjoy the freshness of Tomato Burrata at our live station. elight in the flavours of Poached Pears, Brie with citrus compote, Quinoa and Cheddar Terrine, Baked Feta, Smoked Beetroots, and more.

Experience the fusion of flavours in Gobi ki Chat, Chilly Mango Gazpacho, John Dory, and Drunken Devilled Egg. And don’t miss the opportunity to customize your own salad with 20 types of vegetarian condiments, 6 types of lettuce, 6 types of dressing, and 4 types of meat ondiments. Join us for a memorable Easter celebration filled with delectable dishes and joyful moments. We look forward to welcoming you to Coriander Kitchen. Wishing you a joyous Easter filled with love, laughter, and delectable treats!

Platforms Connecting Job seekers and Recruiters

Platforms connecting job seekers and recruiters revolutionize the job search process by leveraging technology. Job seekers gain access to a wide range of opportunities, personalized job recommendations, and increased visibility to recruiters. Recruiters benefit from access to a diverse talent pool, advanced search tools, streamlined recruitment processes, and insightful analytics.

These platforms optimize efficiency and convenience for both parties, centralizing job postings, applications, and communications. Overall, they play a crucial role in modernizing recruitment, offering convenience, efficiency, and access to a broader talent pool. Here are few platforms that can help you find a suitable job for yourself:-

1. Hirect

Hirect is an innovative chat-based platform tailored for high-growth startups, facilitating direct hiring processes while ensuring 100% data privacy. Raj Das serves as the co-founder and CEO, overseeing a dedicated team of over 300 professionals dedicated to empowering SMEs to swiftly recruit talent within a day. Specifically designed for startups, Hirect enables direct communication between decision-makers (such as CEOs, HR professionals, and team leaders) and potential candidates, streamlining the hiring process effectively.

2. Indeed

Indeed holds the top position as the world’s leading job site, boasting over 250 million unique visitors every month. With a commitment to prioritizing job seekers, Indeed provides them with complimentary access to browse job listings, upload resumes, and conduct company research. Each day, millions of individuals are connected to fresh employment opportunities through Indeed’s platform.

3. Shine.com

Shine.com stands out as India’s second-largest and most innovative online job portal. Established in 2008, Shine.com has emerged as a key player in the recruitment sector over the past decade. Its popularity is underscored by surpassing the milestone of 3.4 crore candidates and hosting over 3 lakh current job vacancies from renowned companies. Shine.com facilitates seamless connections between job seekers and recruiters through its advanced two-way matching technology, ensuring accurate alignment of candidate profiles with relevant job openings.

4. Erekrut

Erekrut is an innovative technology pre-hiring assessment job platform incepted in 2021, that will significantly alter the way recruitment or campus placements are happening globally. It will enable Recruiters to onboard candidates from expansive data of job seekers and young talent from colleges worldwide. Recruiters can manage candidates using Erekrut Application Tracking System while customizing the assessment as per their needs or using free job assessments provided by Erekrut. Erekrut provides a similar Student Tracking system for campuses across to connect with recruiters and manage the placements hassle free. Both Campuses & Recruiters can promote themselves using customizable micro-website created at Erekrut.

U&i Introduces Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds and Super Series Wireless Neckband with Unmatched and Unparallel Sound Performance

New Delhi, March 28 2024: U&i, India’s leading gadget, accessories, and consumer electronics brand is proud to announce the launch of its latest breakthrough in wireless audio technology, the U&i Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds and Super Series Wireless Neckband. These cutting-edge audio devices are engineered to deliver an immersive audio experience, exceptional battery life, and unmatched versatility, setting a new standard.

U&i Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds comes with an impressive music time of 35 hours and a standby time of up to 300 hours. These earbuds ensure uninterrupted sound experience with reduced surround sound wherever you go due to its ANC Feature. Equipped with Bluetooth version 5.3, they offer seamless connectivity within a range of 15 meters. Enjoy clear conversations with a talk time of 35 hours and a standby time of 150 days. The earbuds boast a battery capacity of 30 mAh, providing long-lasting performance, while the charging case, with a capacity of 250 mAh, ensures extended usage. Recharge swiftly with a charging time of just 55 minutes for the earphones and 80 minutes for the case, through the convenient Type-C port/output. Available in black-grey, white-blue and red-black dual colors combination, the U&i Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds combine style with functionality for an unmatched audio experience.

U&i Introduces Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds and Super Series Wireless Neckband with Unmatched and Unparallel Sound Performance

U&i Super Series Wireless Neckband is a blend of superior functionality and comfort for your active lifestyle. With a remarkable music time of 30 hours and standby time of up to 250 hours, these neckbands keep you immersed in your favorite tunes all day long. Powered by Bluetooth version 5.3, enjoy seamless connectivity within a transmission distance of 10 meters. The neckband offers talk time of 30 hours, ensuring uninterrupted conversations on the go. Featuring a 200 mAh battery capacity, they deliver reliable performance, while the 2-hour charging time via Micro USB ensures quick rejuvenation. Boasting an output power of 3mWX2 and a sensitivity of 120db – 1kHz, these neckbands deliver crisp, clear audio. Designed for comfort during sports activities, they come with mic sensitivity of -42dB and mic impedance of 2200 ohms, making them perfect companions for your workout sessions. With a standby time of 150 days, the U&i Super Series Wireless Neckband combines durability, performance, and comfort for an enhanced audio experience.

Availability: U&i Monopoly Series True Wireless Earbuds and Super Series Wireless Neckband can be purchased from U&i outlets and other leading retail stores across India.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Honoured with ‘Commendation for Significant Achievement’, under its Corporate Social Responsibility, at the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards

Bangalore, 28 March 2024: Recently, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) was recognised for its best CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) practices under the category ‘Commendation for Significant Achievement’ presented at the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards. This is a testament to the company’s relentless social efforts and the robust framework for CSR governance and its successful implementation.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Honoured with ‘Commendation for Significant Achievement’, under its Corporate Social Responsibility, at the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Awards

For this award, the TKM CSR activities were evaluated by the CII-ITC assessors under the defined parameters that included Learning & Innovation adopted across all its CSR projects. The company’s social initiatives demonstrated strong alignment with these parameters. Furthermore, as a part of its CSR implementation process, TKM conducts periodic internal assessment overseen by a board-level CSR committee, to actively monitor and comprehensively measure the impacts, ensuring objectivity, credibility, and commitment to compliance. Over the years, the company has implemented diverse assessment tools and systems to evaluate its performance and bolster community enhancement and environmental stewardship through sustained initiatives.

Notably, TKM’s CSR strategy embodies a dual focus on “Empowering Communities” and “Enriching Environment”. Driven by innovation and guided by the principle of Kaizen (continuous improvement), TKM’s CSR projects are organized into six key pillars: Skill Development, Road Safety, Education, Environment, Health & Hygiene, and Disaster Management. Additionally, its sustainable CSR model emphasizes community ownership, unified interventions, behaviour change, and stakeholder engagement.

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Governance, TKM, said, “At TKM, we are honoured to receive the 18th CII-ITC Sustainability Award. We firmly believe in the strong connect and the inclusivity that lies between business growth and societal progress. With a keen eye on enduring interventions, we are focused on catalysing positive behavioural changes especially through our child to community approach. Our continuous efforts are to actively engage with communities, understand their unique needs, aspirations, and challenges and tailor well thought programs to address the specific issues faced by them with sustainability at the core.

TKM has been successful in attaining sustainability in CSR by incorporating long-term strategic planning, engaging stakeholders to collaborate & support, timely project executions, implementing effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the project progressions, thereby aid the absolute community necessities.

This award reaffirms Toyota’s commitment to driving positive change and making a meaningful difference in the lives of people and the community. So far, we have achieved an outreach of over 2.3 million beneficiaries through our various social interventions. As we continue to evolve and adapt, we remain committed to optimal resource allocation and gauging effectiveness of all our CSR projects to enable stronger and meaningful interventions for the societal development.”

Rooted in Toyota’s global vision, TKM’s CSR programs are dedicated to fostering a resilient and sustainable society.

Overview of TKM

Equity participation Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) : 89%, Kirloskar Systems Limited (India) : 11%
Number of employees Approx. 6,000
Land area Approx. 432 acres (approx.1,700,000 m2)
Building area 74,000 m2
Total Installed Production capacity Up to 3,42,000 units

Overview of TKM 1st Plant:

Established October 1997 (start of production: December 1999)
Location Bidadi
Products Innova HyCross, Innova Crysta , Fortuner, Legender manufactured in India.
Installed Production capacity Up to 1,32,000 units

Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:

Start of Production December 2010
Location On the site of Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited, Bidadi
Products Camry Hybrid, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hilux
Installed Production capacity Up to 2,10,000 units