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CERT-in

Definition

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team. Statutory body under Section 70B IT Act; mandatory reporting of qualifying incidents within 6 hours under the April 2022 directions.

Full form
Indian Computer Emergency Response Team
Legal basis
Section 70B, IT Act
Reporting window
6 hours for qualifying incidents
Directive
April 2022 CERT-In directions
Status
Statutory national cybersecurity body

Common questions

What kinds of incidents fall under CERT-In's mandatory 6-hour reporting rule?+

The April 2022 directions list specific categories such as data breaches, ransomware attacks, unauthorised access to critical systems, and DDoS attacks, among others, that entities operating in India must report within the 6-hour window regardless of severity assessment.

How does CERT-In's role differ from a state police cyber cell's role?+

CERT-In is a national technical body focused on incident reporting, coordination and advisories, while state cyber cells conduct criminal investigation and evidence collection. Organisations often report to CERT-In and separately file a police complaint for the same incident.

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