CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic Inaugurated at Panjab University to Strengthen Cybersecurity Awareness and Victim Support

Chandigarh, March 5, 2025 – In a significant move towards enhancing cybersecurity education and victim support, the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic was inaugurated today at Panjab University, Sector 14, Chandigarh. The clinic is a joint initiative by Panjab University and ISAC (Information Sharing and Analysis Center), with CSR support from Zscaler, aimed at equipping students, faculty common people with essential cybersecurity knowledge and support mechanisms. The objective is to provide cybercrime first aid to the victims so that the LEAs can handle the crimes with more lead time. The clinic was officially inaugurated by Ms. Neeraja V, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Cyber Crime, Punjab, who served as the Chief Guest at the event. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by an inspiring address by Ms. Neeraja, highlighting the urgent need for cybersecurity awareness, proactive defense mechanisms, and multi-disciplinary victim support. Key Highlights of the Inauguration Event: * Welcome Address & Felicitation: Prof. Suveera Gill, Honorary Director, CSDE, Panjab University, welcomed dignitaries and emphasized the role of academia in strengthening cybersecurity resilience. * Address by Group Captain P. Aanand Naidu: The Director of CopConnect outlined the clinic’s mission to provide cybersecurity education and victim support. * Corporate Commitment: Ms. Karishma Bhuyan, Head of CSR at Zscaler, reinforced Zscaler’s dedication to cybersecurity awareness through corporate social responsibility initiatives. * Institutional Endorsement: Prof. Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, acknowledged the importance of collaborations between academia, law enforcement, and industry leaders in building cyber-resilient communities. * Vote of Thanks: Dr. Vishal Sharma, a well known Forensic Researcher and Coordinator, CSDE, delivered the vote of thanks by appreciating the efforts of all stakeholders and encouraging students and professionals to leverage the clinic’s resources. A Game-Changer for Cybersecurity Awareness and Victim Support The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University’s Centre for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (CSDE) will serve as a hub for cybersecurity training, research, and victim support. It is designed to offer: * Cybersecurity Awareness Programs: Workshops on phishing, identity theft, cyber fraud, and online safety practices. * Cybercrime Victim Support Echo System: Multi-disciplinary support from Cyber Crime First Responders, Cyber Lawyers, Cyber Psychologists, and Forensic Experts. * Law Enforcement Collaboration: Hands-on training sessions with police officials to enhance digital forensic capabilities. * Industry-Certified Learning: Opportunities to obtain 26 cybersecurity certifications through ISAC. * Engagement with Cybersecurity Platforms: Access to ISAC’s Simulation platforms, Breach Point bug bounty platform, EthixFirst professional ethics rating platform, and the National Security Database. A Unified Vision for a Secure Digital Future The inauguration of the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic represents a significant step towards creating a cyber-aware society. This initiative not only fosters a culture of digital responsibility but also empowers individuals and law enforcement personnel with the intelligence to combat cyber threats effectively. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Neeraja stated: “Cybercrime is evolving rapidly, and initiatives like the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic are the need of the hour. By equipping individuals with the right knowledge and tools, we can collectively build a safer digital environment.” With this launch, Panjab University, ISAC, and Zscaler reaffirm their commitment to advancing cybersecurity education and ensuring a resilient digital future for students, professionals, common people and law enforcement personnel.