Mobile devices have become prone to malware attacks more than ever. Nonetheless, it is a security concern. The DoT or Department of Telecommunications has come up with solutions to thwart this issue and assist people in safeguarding their mobile phones, laptops, and computers. The agency introduced various free tools for bot removal. Simultaneously, the Government of India is reaching out to people through SMS to spread awareness about the same.
GoI’s initiative
You may have received an SMS that read, “Stay Cyber Safe! To protect your device from botnet infections and malware, the Government of India, through CERT-In, recommends downloading the ‘Free Bot Removal Tool’ at csk.gov.in.” It has been sent by the DoT in collaboration with GoI.
GoI’s announcement
People can access the free malware detection tools through the Cyber Swachhta Kendra portal. It is also identified as the Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Center. This portal operates in collaboration with antivirus companies and ISPs (Internet Service Providers). The portal is managed by CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team).
Users would find tools and information to secure their devices or systems on the website. Through the portal, the GoI aims to establish and promote a secure cyberspace. The Cyber Swachhta Kendra portal would help to identify or detect botnet infections actively within India.
How to remove botnet or malware?
- Visit the CSK website: www.csk.gov.in/
- Hit the Security Tools tab
- Choose the antivirus company whose tool you wish to use
- Download the tool by clicking on the Download button
- Windows users can download any of the free bot removal tools listed like Quick Heal, K7 Security, eScan Antivirus, etc.
- Android users can download and install the M-Kavach 2 app developed by C-DAC Hyderabad or eScan CERT-IN Bot Removal tool from the Google Play Store
- Run the tool on your smartphone and it would scan the device for malware while removing them if found
Other security applications offered in the CSK portal that you can take advantage of include AppSamvid, USB Pratirodh, etc. These tools can further enhance the security of any device.
About USB Pratirodh
USB Pratirodh is specially made for desktop computers or laptops to control the usage of removable storage media like pen drives, phones, etc. The tool needs the users to provide a username and password whenever a new device is connected to the desktop or laptop for authentication purposes. The tool would then scan the USB device for the presence of malware as well as encrypts data. Further, it also allows changes to read or write permissions.
About AppSamvid
This application is meant for Windows users. This tool runs approved files only on the OS. The users are prompted to create a list of trusted Java files and executables. People can secure the tool with a password as well. AppSamvid is designed to protect the system from trojans, viruses, and other malware.
How does a device get infected by bots?
- If you opened an infected attachment within an email
- If you click on a suspicious or malicious link on a website or an email
- If you use an unsecured public Wi-Fi network
- If you download a file from any untrusted source
If you take the necessary precautions, your device could remain safe. And in case, your device gets infected, it is suggested to use tools from trusted sources like the tools introduced by the Government of India.
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