Vivekananda Naskar, Director – IT, Protegrity India

Blockchain and Quantum: Rising Tech Trends
While opinions on cryptocurrency remain divided, the underlying Blockchain technology continues to evolve and mature. Alongside this, Quantum Computing is set to become a mainstream trend, especially useful for complex simulations and deep drug discovery. Meanwhile, Generative AI and Machine Learning will remain focal points, with widespread applications across automation, cybersecurity, coding, productivity, and customer service, all aimed at enhancing human life.

AI & ML: Driving Efficiency and Innovation
For CIOs to emerge as strategic business leaders, they must align with the organization’s broader vision, goals, and challenges. Staying updated on emerging technologies like AI, Blockchain, Cloud, and Quantum Computing is essential. Moreover, a CIO must understand the core operations, profitability drivers, market competitiveness, geopolitical risks, and customer demands to contribute meaningfully to business strategy.

AI’s Expanding Role
AI’s utility in cybersecurity is rapidly expanding, especially in Extended Detection and Response (XDR). AI can effectively detect phishing attempts, malware, anomalies, and perform deep log analysis and incident response. Other areas include performance monitoring, capacity planning, and automated auditing, with AI handling compliance checks and risk scoring efficiently.

Effective and Engaging Data Protection Training
Employees should be trained in fundamental data protection methodologies using simple, easy-to-understand language. The training should be aligned with the DPDP Act 2023, GDPR, or a combination of both, depending on the company’s target markets. To engage non-IT employees, the training modules must be interesting and interactive. Management should schedule training at reasonable intervals, as overly frequent sessions may lead to disengagement. Well-established methods such as workshops, phishing simulations, and interactive games can be used to enhance learning. All security and data protection policies should be easily accessible to everyone.

Evolving Roles of CIOs, CTOs, and DPOs
The roles of CIO and CTO are constantly evolving with the fast-changing tech landscape. Beyond technical expertise, CIOs must excel in talent management, embrace top leadership responsibilities, and drive strong cross-functional collaboration. The DPO role, however, is highly specialized, requiring deep knowledge of data security, local laws, and geopolitical contexts. While a skilled CIO or CTO can transition into the DPO role, especially in smaller organizations, it is advisable to keep these roles separate in larger enterprises. This separation ensures objectivity, effective governance, and better manageability in handling data privacy and compliance challenges.