Gurugram: Students of KIIT World School celebrated Halloween with great fun and enthusiasm. The classes of primary students were transformed into an imaginative world filled with bewitching vibes. The tiny-tots dressed in an array of spooky costumes as their favorite characters.

Throughout the event, the students participated in a variety of scary fun-filled activities, immersing themselves in the Halloween spirit. From face painting to pumpkin carving, the atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and creativity. The event featured horror delightful music, spooky candles and lights, and the classes were adorned with Halloween-themed decorations. The day kicked off with a bewitching parade, where tiny witches, ghosts, superheroes, and princesses showcased their creative and spooky outfits.

Principal of KIIT World School, Neelima Kamrah, said, “Our annual Halloween celebration is not just about costumes and candies; it’s about fostering creativity and a sense of community. It’s heartwarming to witness the joy and excitement on their faces as they participate in the spooky parade and various activities. Such e

More than 80% of the world’s population now owns a smartphone. As per reports, India has over 1.2 billion mobile phone users and 600 million smartphone users according to Deloitte’s 2022 Global TMT. They have become so ubiquitous and important to everyday life, that according to research by Google, around a third of smartphone owners use their devices exclusively to access services like online banking, shopping, and email. As much of the world’s workforce moves into hybrid working, mobile devices have also become increasingly common among staff – and not always under the protection of an organization’s cybersecurity team. A study by Microsoft in 2022 revealed that more than two-thirds (67%) of workers use their personal smartphone for work-related tasks.

Our mobile devices represent a very real vulnerability, not just when it comes to our personal data, but when it comes to potentially sensitive work data too. This year has seen that vulnerability increase as mobile threats continue to grow in number and sophistication. Check Point Research revealed that the majority of organizations experienced a mobile malware attack in 2022, with phishing (52%), command and control (25%), and automatic browsing to infected websites (23%) among the most common types of malicious traffic. Banking trojans, designed to steal users’ online banking credentials, and premium dialers, which subscribe to premium rate services without the users’ knowledge, are also on the rise. According to Check Point’s Threat Intelligence Report, over the past six months, the rate of mobile attacks on organizations in India has averaged 7.5% per week, while the global average for attacks per organization stands at 2.2%.

In Check Point’s 2023 Mid-Year Cyber Security Report, mobile devices continue to prove a common attack vector. The “FluHorse” malware, for instance, camouflages itself as popular Android applications, aiming to extract Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) codes and other sensitive user data. Another malware, known as “FakeCalls”, simulates over twenty distinctive financial applications and generates fraudulent voice calls, further highlighting the innovative tactics employed by cybercriminals.

Learn from the past, prepare for the future

While mobile devices offer convenience and efficiency, they also present a unique set of vulnerabilities. Their ubiquitous nature combined with often lax security measures makes them prime targets.

One of the most alarming revelations of 2023 is that despite the advancements in technology and the increasing reliance on mobile devices, they remain one of the most unsecured attack modes. This is partly because the onus of security has traditionally been placed on suppliers, like Apple or Android, rather than on additional, layered security measures. Time will tell if we see a course correction on this issue in the coming years.

The inherent risks

The risks associated with mobile threats are multifaceted. Beyond the immediate threat of data theft, mobile devices can serve as gateways for attackers to access corporate networks, potentially leading to larger-scale breaches or supply chain attacks. The lateral movement within networks, facilitated by compromised mobile devices, can have cascading effects, compromising multiple systems and data repositories.

Mobile devices are, of course, network endpoints, and that means they are often part of complex supply chains. Vulnerabilities can be introduced to these supply chains at any stage, from device manufacturing and software development, right through to the deployment of services to end users. Mobile phones, particularly those that are not business-owned or carefully monitored, are currently the weakest part of the chain.

Outside of business, mobile devices are also prime targets for phishing attacks and social engineering. The smaller screen sizes can make it harder to identify malicious URLs, and users are more likely to click on fraudulent links in text messages or social media apps when they are distracted or on the move. There are also concerns that mobiles are creating a culture of overreliance on technologies like biometric authentication. While facial recognition and fingerprint scanning are convenient, they are not infallible and can be spoofed by malicious actors.

Who is responsible for mobile security?

While suppliers play a crucial role in patching known vulnerabilities, organizations and individuals must take proactive measures to secure their devices. Relying solely on the supplier is a reactive approach that leaves devices vulnerable to zero-day attacks. Instead, a multi-layered security approach, including regular software updates, robust authentication methods, and user education, can significantly reduce the risk posed by mobile threats. According to the “Evidence-based Insights” report, security issues have been identified in nearly 75% of India’s top 100 Android apps. These apps have access to a significant amount of sensitive data, providing both organizations and users with insights into potential security risks.

As we look to the future, the mobile threat landscape is expected to become even more complex. With the increasing integration of IoT devices and the blurring lines between personal and professional device usage, the potential attack surface continues to grow. Organizations and individuals must remain vigilant, prioritizing mobile security not as an afterthought but as a fundamental aspect of their overall cybersecurity strategy.

In fact in response to this concern and to aid people in protecting their smartphones, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced a range of complimentary tools for removing bots in India. Operating in collaboration with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and antivirus companies, this portal, commonly referred to as the Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre, is managed by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). The platform offers users access to resources and tools aimed at enhancing the security of their systems and devices.

While mobile devices have revolutionized the way we live and work, they have also introduced a new set of challenges in the realm of cybersecurity. By understanding the evolving threat landscape and taking proactive measures, we can enjoy the benefits of mobile technology without compromising security.

“Whistle”, the trendsetter in cosmetic dentistry, has taken the world of beauty and confidence to newer heights as the presenting sponsor of the ‘Bridal Luxury Edition’ fashion show in Bengaluru. This luxurious event, hosted by Prasad Bidapa Associates on 28th October, was a star-studded affair that witnessed the presence of renowned designers like Ritu Kumar, Suneet Verma, P.N. Rao, Geisha Designs, Deepam Silk, Darshi Keerthisena, and Dimuthu Sahabandhu, showcasing the fusion of fashion and dental elegance.

“Whistle”, left an indelible mark on this glamorous evening by emphasizing the significance of beautifully aligned teeth. Whistle, has joined hands with Clove Dental – India’s largest dental chain, with 425+ clinics, 1000+ dentists and 80+ orthodontists, to give each individual, a best-in-class smile enhancing dental experience.

Mr. Amarinder Singh, CEO of Whistle said, “At Whistle, our vision is always to provide healthy and beautiful smiles. I have always maintained that teeth are the most important and conspicuous part of our face and Smile is a big part of the facial structure. A perfect smile is the last frontier of beauty, and Whistle is here to deliver beautiful smiles for 1.4 billion Indians, one smile at a time.”

Dr. Amit Sachdeva, Chief Product Officer of Whistle, commented, “Everyone has a unique smile which not only enhances their beauty but also defines their personality. We at Whistle have used an innovative shape memory polymer material coupled with highly precise 3D printing technology to develop a state-of-the-art Smile Enhancement product called ‘Whistle Aligners’. These Aligners are designed using AI software which is further enhanced by expertise derived from Clove Dental’s most experienced dentists and orthodontists.”

The ‘Whistle Zone,’ an exclusive area at the event, embodied the spirit of inner happiness. It showcased our innovative dental solutions, including Whistle Aligners, which offer discreet and effective teeth alignment solutions, empowering individuals to embrace their true selves with confidence and self-assurance. Whistle Aligners, produced in partnership with Clove Dental, were the undeniable stars of the evening, demonstrating their revolutionary ability to fix and elevate smiles in a subtle, non-intrusive manner.

Whistle is not just a dental products brand; it is a beacon of beauty and confidence, guiding individuals on their journey to inner happiness. Our first product, Whistle Aligners, is your passport to a radiant, confident smile, allowing you to embrace your true self and exude beauty and confidence with every grin. Join us on this transformative journey, where smiles are the ultimate statement of inner happiness. Whistle: Where Your Smile Redefines Beauty and Confidence!

Hyderabad,1st November 2023: The Association of Investment Bankers of India (AIBI) organized a National Workshop on ‘Capacity Building on Critical Areas of the Primary Market’ at National Stock Exchange office in Mumbai today. During the day-long workshop, the members of AIBI which is the investment bankers’ sole representative body to SEBI and various statutory authorities, discussed what critical roles regulators, stock exchanges, investment bankers, and other related market intermediaries must play and what is expected from each of these stakeholders during capital formation processes.

Dr. Bhagwat Karad Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Finance Government of India, said, “It is quite heartening to note that the Indian capital market has shown resilience in testing times and has become the most advanced and progressive marketplace globally. The role of AIBI and merchant bankers is notable in contributing towards the orderly development of the Indian capital market.”

Mr. Mahavir Lunawat, Chairman of Association of Investment Bankers of India, said, “In today’s workshop, we had a meaningful dialogue on the role and expectations of regulators, stock exchanges, merchant bankers, law firms, and data providers in making the primary market more robust and transparent. All stakeholders agreed that there is a need to work together more closely for simpler IPO documentation and processes for capital formation. We collectively identified the need for capacity building, bringing more momentum in advocacy campaigns for financial literacy, enhancing transparency and good governance, and boosting investors’ confidence.”

He added, “Along with market intermediaries, the body of merchant bankers will continue to advocate the orderly growth of capital market, keep interest of investment bankers aligned and enhance investor awareness and promote best practices via strategic measures.”

Mr. Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO of National Stock Exchange, said, “Gone are the days when investors were afraid of investing in stock markets. Today, we have eight crore direct investors in the stock markets. Most of the new investors have come over the last three years, during Covid and post-Covid. Mobile phones and mobile applications have helped wherein now more people are saving through the stock markets. These eight crore investors are actually five crore unique households which is 17% of India’s all households put together that are directly investing in Indian stock markets. And largely, their entry is through IPO markets. I commend AIBI and all its members for ensuring that capital formation remains the most important pillar of running of capital markets.”

Going forward, AIBI will continue to work on identifying desired practices and processes that must be adopted for larger and faster capital formation which is the most critical tool for achieving ease of doing business and in turn contributes to nation-building. AIBI will also be analyzing IPO processes, the timelines involved, and how the same can be streamlined while meeting regulatory expectations.

Besides Mr. Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange; Mr. V S Sundaresan, Executive Director, SEBI; Mr. Mahavir Lunawat, Chairman of Association of Investment Bankers of India; other dignitaries like Mr. Anant Barua, Former, Wholetime Member SEBI; Mr. Rajesh Dangeti, CGM, SEBI; Mr. Deep Mani Shah, CGM, SEBI; Mr. J N Gupta, MD, Stakeholders Empowerment Services Investment; and Mr. Prithvi Haldea, Founder & Chairman, Prime Database attended the national workshop.

Other participants consisted of investment bankers, data providers, corporate law firms, and related market intermediaries.

Sterling Tools Limited (BSE: 530759) (NSE: STERTOOLS) is the 2nd largest Automotive Fastener Manufacturer in the country and its 100% owned subsidiary Sterling Gtake E-Mobility Ltd., is the largest MCU supplier to the EV industry in India. The Company announced its unaudited Standalone and Consolidated results for the quarter and half year ended 30th September 2023.

Key Standalone Financial Highlights:

• As per SIAM, the Automobile Industry production has grown by ~1% YoY for the period of April-September. STL has outperformed the industry, growing by 3.7% YoY in H1FY24
• Low revenue growth led to lower absorption of manufacturing expenses as well as (increased) employee costs

Commenting on the Q1FY24 performance, Mr. Atul Aggarwal, Whole Time Director of Sterling Tools Limited stated: “The consolidated revenues grew by 22.8% from Rs 353.8 crore in H1FY23 to Rs. 434.4 crore in H1FY24. The EBITDA has also witnessed a growth of 12.6% to Rs 54.4 crore during the first half of the fiscal year. Our Sterling Gtake E-Mobility (SGEM) subsidiary contributed 30% of consolidated revenue in H1 FY24 vs 17% in H1 FY23, an indication of how well this new business has performed for us.

On a standalone basis, the topline grew by 3.7% to Rs. 304.0 crores. For the same period, the production data for the overall auto industry reflects 1% YoY growth. Within the end-user product sub segments we have either outpaced or been in line with the industry performance.

The Company is introducing STL ESOP plan 2023 wherein the Company shall grant ESOP, subject to regulatory approvals. The ESOP Plan is being introduced with a view to provide employees, of the Company and its subsidiaries, with additional incentives based on productivity and performance and thereby motivating them to contribute further to the corporate growth and profitability.

Going ahead, our focus will be to increase capacity utilization thereby enabling the company to achieve operating leverage. We are currently working on a three-pronged strategy of customer acquisition, higher content per vehicle and new product development.”

New Delhi,1st November 2023: Study Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Elena Rodriguez-Falcon to a new role of Provost and Chief Academic Officer. In this role Elena will carry global responsibility for Study Group’s academic strategy and teaching and support of students, as well as operational responsibility for the teaching and support of students at our international study centers and colleges in the UK and Ireland.

Professor Elena Rodriguez-Falcon is an internationally respected educator and passionate advocate for excellence and innovation in teaching and student support. Having been brought up and studied in Mexico, Elena served as a Professor of Engineering in a UK Russell Group university before becoming the first President and Chief Executive at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering. She then served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint Dav

A Principal Fellow at Advance HE and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, Elena is also a champion for Women in STEM and has led transformational work on enterprise education and collaboration with employers within education. Teams of international students she mentored have been UK winners of Enactus – an international organization that connects student, academic, and business leaders through entrepreneurial-based projects – and finalists in its prestigious global awards.

Elena is also a long-standing supporter of international students and has advocated in Parliament for the #WeAreInternational campaign. Her work on support and innovation in education has been extensively published by sector and mainstream media. In 2015, she received a doctorate of engineering honoris causa by her alma mater, the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in México and in 2020 she was named Woman of the Year in Technology by FDM Everywoman.

Study Group Chief Executive Officer Ian Crichton says, “I am extremely pleased to announce the new role of Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Study Group and delighted that Professor Rodriguez-Falcon has agreed to join us. Our reputation for excellent teaching and support is built on the dedication of our teachers and the commitment of student support teams – the success of our students themselves as they progress to their degrees, and beyond into their careers and lives, is the true testament to that.

“This role will strengthen that commitment to student success still further, and in Elena we will have a unique combination of experience in leadership in a traditional university and innovation in new forms of provision. I am very much looking forward to the energy and care I know she will soon bring to our Executive Committee and the organisation as a whole.”

Commenting on her appointment, Elena says: “I am delighted to be taking up this new role of Provost and Chief Academic Officer for Study Group and to help increase the participation and success of students from around the world in international education. The role includes the opportunity to work with our excellent established International Study Centres and Colleges and teachers, and to develop new models of education globally with partners in universities and government across the world. I very much welcome the determination of Study Group to put quality in teaching and the support of students at the core of everything it does, and am truly looking forward to this exciting opportunity.”

Congratulating Elena on her appointment, Chair of the Study Group Academic Board Professor Sir Keith Burnett says, “I am delighted to welcome Elena to Study Group and very much look forward to her contribution. Having worked with Elena at the University of Sheffield, I witnessed at first hand her dedication to students’ learning as well as her creativity and flair in finding meaningful ways to engage and inspire. She is a true ambassador for international education and, on behalf of the Academic Board, I am looking forward to working closely together to meet the needs and hopes of our diverse cohorts of students.”

In her new role, Elena will be supported by very strong operational delivery and academic senior leadership team including Vaughan Leyshon and Melinda Tan, existing University Partnership Directors and long-standing members of the Study Group team. Previous Managing Director (University Partnerships) Dr Mark Cunnington leaves Study Group after seven years to take up the role of Pro- Vice-Chancellor for BIMM, a private university specialising in music, film, performing arts and creative technology. He leaves Study Group with the warm thanks of all of his colleagues for his commitment to academic quality and good wishes for his next role.

Mumbai –1st November 2023 – Motherson Sumi Wiring India Limited (MSWIL) today announced its financial results for the fiscal 2023-24 second quarter, which ended on 30th September 2023.

Mr. Vivek Chaand Sehgal, Chairman, of Motherson Sumi Wiring India Ltd., said,

The Company has delivered a commendable performance with the unwavering support of our valued customers and the relentless efforts of our teams across India. The Indian automotive industry continues to grow at a healthy rate. The company’s manufacturing expertise remains a crucial driver of its performance, and it is committed to enhancing its operational efficiencies further. Additionally, the company will continue to expand its capacities aligned to its customers’ upcoming launches across all powertrains.”

Key Highlights

• Revenue for the quarter for the domestic wiring harness business exceeded Rs 2,000 crore for the first time.
• Efficient capacity utilisation
• Continues to be a debt-free company.

Financial Performance

Motherson Sumi Wiring India Limited (MSWIL)

 Motherson Sumi Wiring India Limited (MSWIL) is a leading and fast-growing full-system solutions provider to OEMs in the wiring harness segment in India. Motherson Sumi Wiring India is a joint venture between Samvardhana Motherson International Limited (SAMIL) [Formerly Motherson Sumi Systems Limited] and Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd. (SWS). The company is prepared to meet the customer needs at every stage of the supply chain, from initial product design and validation to tool design and manufacturing, finishing, processing, assembly, and finally, production of integrated cutting-edge Electrical and electronic Distribution Systems for the power supply or data transfer across vehicles. Motherson Sumi Wiring India Limited has a product profile that benefits from favorable industry trends of premiumization, which leads to an increase in automobile electrification, and supports current and future automotive trends. (CIN – L29306MH2020PLC341326) www.mswil.motherson.com

Bangalore 1st  November 2023 — As Cybersecurity Awareness Month comes to a close, SonicWall today released the findings of its 2023 SonicWall Threat Mindset Survey which found that 55% of its customers are more concerned about cyberattacks in 2023, with the main threat being focused on digital attacks like ransomware and spear phishing.

“Understanding our partner’s and customers’ greatest concerns is at the heart of SonicWall’s outside-in strategy,” said SonicWall President and CEO Bob VanKirk. “Even further, it’s taking that insight and acting upon it to provide key value-added products and services. The data from the 2023 SonicWall Threat Mindset Survey helps keep our finger on the pulse of what truly matters to our valued customers. As organizations around the globe struggle with economic declines and political strife, SonicWall remains committed to providing the latest in threat intelligence and cyber security solutions to help our partners and customers successfully navigate these rough waters.”

SonicWall’s proprietary threat mindset survey uncovered additional findings:

Continued concerns about intensifying cyberattacks: There is growing concern regarding cyberattacks amongst 54% of professionals surveyed; ransomware leads the distress as 83% of all customers cited it as their biggest concern. 94% of respondents are equally or more concerned about overall attacks in 2023. Phishing and spear-phishing (76%), as well as encrypted malware (64%), comprised the top three concerns.

Organizations slow to patch: Despite rising cyberattack concerns, 78% of organizations don’t patch critical vulnerabilities within 24 hours of patch availability; another 13% only apply critical patches when time allows.

Increased fear around insider threats: Insider threat incidents have continued to increase and 49% of IT professionals cited it as a growing worry. The larger the organization, the more potential insider threat incidents exist. Critical business information and sensitive data can be found in employees’ emails – and IT professionals feel the concern.

Now Hiring: cybersecurity professionals needed: 41% of respondents described their IT/ cybersecurity personnel as inadequate. With the cyberattack landscape becoming savvier with stronger capabilities of pulling off attacks, organizations must prioritize protection and hiring individuals who have the knowledge and skills to best position their company to not fall victim to these ongoing cyberattacks.

Companies are not only losing millions of dollars to unending malware and ransomware strikes but cyberattacks on essential infrastructure are impacting real-world services. Despite the growing concern of cyberattacks, organizations are struggling to keep pace with the fast-moving threat landscape as they orient their business, networks, data, and employees against never-ending cyberattacks.

“The evolving cyber threat landscape is the new normal,” said EIS Management CIO Jeff Falk. “The labor diverted from business initiatives to cybersecurity concerns swells year-over-year, which demands I spend more of my time managing the business’ security needs, having an impact on business operations.”

In an effort to promote cybersecurity attentiveness, SonicWall supports Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October with an added emphasis on a new enduring cybersecurity awareness program, Secure Our World. Secure Our World reflects a new enduring message to be integrated across the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) awareness campaigns and programs and encourages all of us to take action each day to protect ourselves when online or using connected devices.

Methodology

SonicWall surveyed approximately 10,000 customers from around the globe. Questions were optional and some were open-ended, while others were multiple choice.

Celebrated by married women all over north India, the Festival of Karva Chauth is an auspicious day that reiterates the unconditional love of a woman, where she fasts for her partner and prays for longevity and good health. What makes this festival even more special is that women dress up in their finest attire and jewelry for a puja ceremony where they pray together and listen to the tale and significance of Karva Chauth.

This memorable occasion is enhanced with a touch of elegance and beauty by the Karva Chauth collection, designed by Archana Aggarwal. The women savoring this celebration become even more beautiful and graceful by the custom collection.

The collection features the best quality gemstones that are destined to become cherished heirlooms, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. It offers a diverse range that caters to various preferences and styles, blending classic and contemporary elements. The intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship enhance your unique style, providing the wearer with a distinctive and elegant look. The designs span from delicate earrings that exude grace to intricately crafted necklaces radiating regal charm.

Pune, 1st November 2023: Mispronunciations often plague the journey of brands, and Fibe, India’s leading Fintech decided to embrace this challenge with humor and innovation. Often faced with the challenge of people not getting its name right or mispronouncing it as ‘Fibs’ or ‘Fibeys’, the company launched an innovative social media campaign by introducing the unique role of a ‘Chief Pronunciation Officer’ (CPO). The campaign visuals and design language took inspiration from LinkedIn, as the campaign essentially served as a job application for the CPO role.

As part of the campaign, individuals from all walks of life were invited to participate in a tongue-twisting challenge, saying “Fibe felao, Vibe felao” ten times in a row without fumbling or pausing.

With the objective of establishing the correct pronunciation of ‘Fibe’ among audiences, the company invited applicants to post videos or audio to not only get the brand name right but also add their own creative spin to the tongue twister.

The CPO campaign received an impressive response, totaling 1,100+ inquiries, 50+ job applications on LinkedIn and 300+ video submissions. With minimal marketing spends, Fibe’s campaign was able to create a lasting impact on consumers, garnering a reach of more than 15.3M.

What sets this campaign apart is Fibe’s generous reward of INR 50,000 for mastering the tongue-twister challenge. The chosen CPO becomes a guardian of the #PaiseWaliVibe, earning not only the prestigious title but also the rewarding prize. Fibe collaborated with the well-known comedian Josè Covaco, whose name is often mispronounced.

Commenting on this campaign, Sudesh Shetty, Founding Member and Director of Marketing of Fibe said, “We believe that humor and creativity can transform challenges into opportunities. Fibe’s CPO Campaign was not merely about pronouncing the brand name correctly; but fostering a positive and dynamic vibe. The response we’ve received is a testament to the power of innovation and the #PaiseWaliVibe that we stand for.”

Social media proved highly effective in driving engagement and participation for the campaign, generating a significant response from a diverse audience. This demonstrates the campaign’s resounding success in establishing the correct pronunciation of ‘Fibe’ while infusing a #PaiseWaliVibe throughout the process.