Zscaler Pioneers Cybersecurity Awareness and Victim Support with the Inauguration of Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University

Chandigarh, India : The inauguration of the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University marks a significant step in strengthening cybersecurity awareness and victim support. The event took place at Panjab University’s South Campus, Sector-25, Chandigarh, bringing together key stakeholders committed to enhancing digital safety.

Among the key contributors to this initiative is Zscaler, a global leader in cloud security and zero trust architecture, whose active involvement aims to transform the way individuals and institutions respond to cyber threats.

Zscaler’s commitment to community empowerment and digital safety was highlighted during the inauguration event, where Ms. Karishma Bhuyan, who leads social impact initiatives at Zscaler, underscored the company’s vision for a secure digital ecosystem. With over 30,000 students on campus, this clinic is set to play a pivotal role in fostering cyber awareness and preparedness among young digital users.

Zscaler’s Role in Strengthening Cybersecurity

Zscaler has consistently been at the forefront of cybersecurity, protecting enterprises through its Zero Trust Exchange, the world’s largest cloud-based security platform. By extending its expertise beyond corporations to educational institutions and communities, Zscaler aims to build cyber resilience at the grassroots level.

“The Cyber Wellness Clinic is a unique initiative that aligns with Zscaler’s mission of creating a safe digital environment,” said Ms. Bhuyan. “One of the most critical aspects of this clinic is cyber victim support. The first few minutes after experiencing cyber fraud are crucial, and having immediate access to the right information can make all the difference. We are thrilled that Punjab University has provided space for this initiative, ensuring that students become cybersecurity champions in their communities.”

As cyber threats continue to evolve, Zscaler’s contribution to training Cyber Crime First Responders (CCFRs) at the university is a testament to its dedication to proactive cybersecurity education. So far, 125 faculty members and students have been trained under this initiative, equipping them with the necessary skills to provide first aid in case of cyber incidents.

A Holistic Approach to Cyber Wellness

The Cyber Wellness Clinic is designed to serve as a ‘cyber first aid’ center, much like medical first aid. Victims of cybercrime who may hesitate to report online can seek support from cyber psychologists, legal experts, and forensic specialists at the clinic. This collaborative approach ensures that individuals not only receive immediate guidance but also the necessary emotional and legal support to navigate cyber incidents effectively.

The clinic, inaugurated by Ms. V. Neeraja, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Cyber Crime, Punjab, brings together experts and technology-driven solutions to mitigate cyber threats. Ms. Neerja emphasized the urgent need for cybersecurity awareness and highlighted the significance of initiatives like these in strengthening multi-disciplinary victim support systems.

How the Clinic Function

The Cyber Wellness Clinic offers an array of services designed to aid victims and educate the community, including:

• Cyber Victim Assistance: Experts collect detailed information about incidents and provide step-by-step guidance on how to respond.
• Cyber Crime First Responders: Trained faculty members and students are available across the campus to offer first aid in case of cyber fraud.
• Hacked or Not Kiosk: A specialized tool that helps users detect potential spyware or banned applications on their devices.
• Helpline Support: Victims are advised to report incidents to the national cybercrime helpline (1930) and register complaints on the NCRP portal.
• Awareness and Training Programs: Regular workshops and seminars will be conducted to equip students and faculty with knowledge about cybersecurity best practices.

Expanding the Reach of Cyber Awareness

The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University is part of a larger initiative that began in Bengaluru in May 2024. Since then, it has expanded to Mysuru, Mangaluru, Delhi, and now Chandigarh, with plans underway to establish a seventh clinic at NITTTR Chandigarh. The goal is to create a network of cyber wellness centers across India, ensuring that cybersecurity education reaches as many people as possible.

“Let us look at the Cyber Wellness Clinic as more than just a space—it is a community,” added Ms. Bhuyan. “A community of cyber warriors working together to stay safe in the digital world.”

Zscaler’s Legacy in Cybersecurity Innovation

Founded in 2007 by Jay Chaudhry, Zscaler has revolutionized the cybersecurity landscape with its cloud-native Zero Trust Exchange platform. As a NASDAQ-listed company headquartered in San Jose, California, Zscaler accelerates digital transformation for enterprises worldwide, ensuring they remain agile, efficient, and secure in an increasingly digital environment.

Zscaler’s presence in India is notable, with nearly 3,000 employees contributing significantly to its global operations. The company’s footprint includes offices in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Mohali, and Pune, along with seven data centers securing over five million users across 400 organizations in the country.

A Secure Digital Future Begins Here

The inauguration of the Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University is a testament to Zscaler’s unwavering commitment to cybersecurity and social responsibility. By equipping students, faculty, and community members with the tools and knowledge needed to combat cyber threats, Zscaler is not only enhancing digital safety but also shaping the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.

As cyber threats grow in sophistication, initiatives like the Cyber Wellness Clinic play a crucial role in fostering awareness, providing victim support, and ultimately, creating a more secure digital ecosystem for all.