In response to the increasing threat of cybercrime, Assam is set to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure with the establishment of India’s second National Cyber Forensics Lab (NCFL) at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon. This new facility aims to bolster the state’s capabilities in combating cyber threats and fraud.

Overview of the New Cyber Forensics Lab

Assam’s NCFL will be located at the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in Dergaon. As the second NCFL in India, the lab will provide crucial support for investigating and mitigating cybercrime, which has been on the rise in recent years.

National Coordination and Support

The establishment of the NCFL in Assam is a collaborative effort involving the Assam police and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). An MoU between these entities outlines the lab’s role in enhancing cybercrime investigations and improving law enforcement coordination.

Government and Leadership Endorsement

Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed appreciation for the support from Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai. Dr. Sarma emphasized that the new lab supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Safe Cyber Space Campaign,” aimed at creating a more secure digital environment.

Synergy with Existing Facilities

The new lab will complement the existing National Cyber Forensics Lab in Tripura, which has been operational since 2013. The Tripura lab has provided valuable forensic support for cybercrime investigations and legal proceedings.

Addressing Cybercrime Challenges

Recent statistics from the I4C highlight a significant increase in cyber fraud. Between January and April 2024, there were 20,043 trading scams and 62,687 investment scams reported. The Assam NCFL will play a pivotal role in addressing these issues by offering advanced forensic analysis and training for law enforcement.

Role of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre

The I4C, established in 2018, will oversee the operations of the new NCFL. Its mission includes improving coordination between various law enforcement agencies, streamlining cybercrime investigations, and fostering cooperation between government and private sector stakeholders.

Future Impact and Expectations

The launch of the National Cyber Forensics Lab in Assam represents a significant step forward in enhancing the state’s cybersecurity measures. The facility is expected to strengthen the state’s ability to prevent, investigate, and prosecute cybercrimes, contributing to a safer digital environment for its residents.