Panjab University Inaugurates CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic To Strengthen Cyber Awareness & Victim Support
Zscaler, ISAC, and Government Stakeholders Join Hands to Empower Students and Communities
Ms. V. Neerja (ADGP, Cyber Crime, Punjab) inaugurating the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic. |
Chandigarh, India – The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic was officially inaugurated at Panjab University’s South Campus, Sector-25, Chandigarh, marking a significant step in strengthening cybersecurity awareness and victim support. This initiative, led by the Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC) in collaboration with Zscaler and the Centre for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (CSDE), is dedicated to providing free cybersecurity assistance to students and the general public.
Government and Industry Experts Emphasize Cyber Wellness
Dr. Tulika Pandey, Scientist 'G' and Group Coordinator (R&D in Cybersecurity), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, emphasized the importance of cyber wellness in today’s interconnected world.
“In a world of endless digital connections, cyber wellness is a necessity, not a choice. Mindful screen use protects mental health, privacy, and well-being. Let technology empower, not overpower, your life,” she stated.
The clinic was officially inaugurated by Ms. V. Neerja, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Cyber Crime, Punjab, who served as the Chief Guest. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Ms. Neerja delivered an inspiring address, highlighting the urgent need for cybersecurity awareness, proactive defense mechanisms, and multi-disciplinary victim support.
A Unified Effort in Cybersecurity Education
The inauguration event was attended by several distinguished guests, including:
PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig
Honorary Director of CSDE Prof. Suvira Gill
Prof. Dr. Vishal Sharma from CSDE
Zscaler CSR Head Ms Karishma Bhuyan
Group Captain P. Anand Naidu, Founder of CopConnect
These stakeholders reinforced the importance of cybersecurity education and community-driven support systems to combat the growing cyber threat landscape.
How the Clinic Works
The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic provides free cybersecurity assistance, ensuring that students, faculty, and the public receive timely support in case of cyber incidents. Key features include:
Hacked or Not Kiosk Machine: A diagnostic tool that scans smartphones for banned apps, spyware, and malware to prevent data theft.
Guidance for Cyber Victims: Cyber experts analyze incidents, collect detailed information, and provide step-by-step solutions to mitigate harm.
Helpline Support: Victims are guided to report cyber fraud through the 1930 helpline and NCRP portal, ensuring law enforcement intervention.
Professional Support: The clinic is staffed by cyber psychologists, cyber lawyers, and forensic experts, providing legal, emotional, and technical assistance.
Expansion Plans and National Impact
The CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic is part of a broader national initiative launched in Bengaluru in May 2024. Since then, the program has successfully expanded to:
Mysuru
Mangaluru
Delhi
Now at Panjab University, Chandigarh
Plans are currently underway to establish the seventh clinic at NITTTR Chandigarh, further reinforcing India’s commitment to cybersecurity education and digital safety.
“The Cyber Wellness Clinic is more than just a facility—it’s a movement,” said Group Captain P. Anand Naidu.
“As cyber threats evolve, we need trained individuals across institutions to offer first aid to cybercrime victims, ensuring timely intervention and minimizing financial and psychological harm.”
Tips to Stay Safe from Cybercrime
As part of its awareness initiatives, the clinic offers practical cybersecurity tips to help students and individuals stay safe online:
✔️ Stay Alert: Never share personal details with unknown callers, emails, or websites.
✔️ Avoid Panic: If you receive urgent messages about blocked accounts or payments, verify them before taking action.
✔️ Beware of Scams: Ignore fake lottery wins, QR code scans, and fraudulent investment schemes.
✔️ Verify Video Calls: With AI-generated deepfake scams on the rise, always cross-check the identity of the person before engaging in video-based communication.
Cybersecurity as a Career Path
Beyond victim support, the Cyber Wellness Clinic also plays a pivotal role in cybersecurity education and career guidance. Experts from cyber psychology, cyber law, and forensic investigations are actively involved, offering students insights into various career opportunities in the cybersecurity field.
Prof. Suvira Gill highlighted that cybersecurity is a growing sector, and educational institutions must equip students with the necessary skills to protect the digital world.
Case Study: Rescuing a Student from Cyber Harassment
One of the most compelling examples of the clinic’s impact is a recent case where a college student faced cyber harassment after rejecting a peer’s proposal.
The student was subjected to repeated obscene calls and messages, which later escalated to her mother receiving harassment as well.
Feeling helpless and distressed, she reached out to the CopConnect app for support.
Experts from the Cyber Wellness Team provided psychological guidance, legal assistance, and encouraged her to report the case.
With timely intervention, the perpetrator was identified and legal action was taken.
Today, she is an advocate for cybersecurity awareness, helping others recognize and combat digital abuse.
A Safer Digital Future Begins Here
The inauguration of the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic at Panjab University is a testament to the power of collaboration between cybersecurity professionals, educational institutions, and law enforcement agencies.
By providing cybercrime assistance, training, and education, this initiative is playing a crucial role in shaping a cyber-resilient society. As cyber threats continue to grow, partnerships between academia and industry leaders like Zscaler and ISAC will be key in ensuring that students, faculty, and citizens remain vigilant, informed, and prepared in the digital landscape.
The collective efforts of Panjab University, Zscaler, ISAC, and the Ministry of Electronics & IT demonstrate that public-private partnerships are essential in fostering a safer online world for everyone. To access cybersecurity assistance, download the CopConnect App from the Google Play Store: Download Here