Singh Highlights the Urgency of Psychological, Cyber, and Physical Security Adaptation
The security landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and organisations must adapt swiftly to counter emerging threats, emphasised Gurpawan Singh, President of IIRIS Consulting, at the 2nd Edition of BW Security World 40 Under 40 Awards. Speaking on the topic “Time for Security to Mutate”, Singh highlighted the need for a fundamental shift in security strategies, from psychological assurance to advanced technological interventions.
Singh noted that security is not just about physical or cyber protection but also about creating a sense of psychological safety. “Before any security measure is put in place, psychological security is the first line of defence. If individuals feel secure in their homes, offices, or even at a national level, it builds confidence and reduces panic in times of crisis,” he explained. He stressed that security professionals play a crucial role in establishing this psychological assurance.
Adapting To Shifting Threat Landscape
Security threats have evolved from traditional risks to complex cyber and digital challenges. Singh pointed out that data is now the most valuable asset, making cyberattacks a primary concern. “Today, everything from entertainment to financial transactions happens digitally. This means that while security is advancing, so are the tactics of cybercriminals. We need proactive strategies, not just reactive responses,” he said.
Citing global trends, Singh warned that the gap between criminals and law enforcement is widening due to bureaucratic constraints. “While cybercriminals operate without borders, law enforcement is bound by national regulations, making it harder to track and counter cybercrime effectively,” he noted. He stressed the need for international cooperation and advanced technological solutions to combat such crimes.
Empowering Security Through Technology
With cyber and data threats rising, Singh underscored the importance of leveraging technology to stay ahead. “If we do not evolve security measures at the same speed as threats, we risk falling behind,” he stated. He compared the situation to a car mechanic and a heart surgeon, explaining that “in security, we don’t have the luxury of slowing down. Just like a surgeon must act fast to save a life, security professionals must adapt quickly to emerging risks.”
He also pointed out that many cybercrimes go unresolved due to lack of resources and slow response times. “Currently, more than one lakh cybercrime incidents occur in India daily, but only a fraction get solved. This gap will only widen unless we equip our professionals with the latest tools and strategies,” Singh added.
The Role Of Awareness & Community Engagement
While law enforcement plays a vital role in security, Singh stressed that safety is a shared responsibility. “Crime prevention is often considered a police responsibility, but in reality, it is a community effort. Raising awareness and training individuals to identify risks is crucial,” he explained. He urged organisations to invest in regular security training to strengthen collective resilience against threats.
Singh concluded by urging the security industry to embrace change rapidly. “Security professionals, businesses, and policymakers must work together to stay ahead of threats. The future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and anticipate risks before they materialise,” he stated.
BY- Satyam Mishra
