Freedom of expression, a right enshrined in India’s constitution, often faces suppression when exercised by individuals outside societal norms. Tragically, earlier this year, a 16-year-old chose to end his life after enduring relentless cyberbullying for expressing his true self in attire and gender identity.
But, “You are not alone”, reinforces Nappinai N.S., Supreme Court Advocate and Founder of Cyber Saathi, during an exclusive interview with The Cyber Express at the World CyberCon in Mumbai.
In a riveting conversation, Nappinai thoroughly spoke about the issue of cyberbullying, highlighted the significance of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act in safeguarding personal data, and discussed the misuse of deepfake and the nuances of Artificial Intelligence.
She eloquently painted a picture of how our digital footprints pave the way for complex profiling, demonstrating the unexpected ways our data influences diverse aspects of our lives.
Drawing attention to the extensive risks posed by personal data exposure in the digital space, Nappinai highlighted the critical importance of laws that govern data collection, usage, and retention, ensuring data is employed solely for the intended purpose.
“The data that you’re sharing, let’s say with one e-commerce platform, is going to be utilized in multiple ways. It will definitely be utilized to cater to or suggest similar products to you as what you may have already purchased. But it goes beyond that. In terms of profiling you, profiling where you come from, what you are, where you live,” she told The Cyber Express.
When asked whether the Digital India Act and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act would stifle innovation, Nappinai dismissed the speculations, instead stating that such laws serve as enablers, providing legitimacy and direction to businesses.
She emphasized that regulations like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act not only safeguard individual rights but also provide a framework for businesses to thrive without uncertainty.
Nappinai N.S’s Cyber Saathi: Empowering Digital Natives
Discussing her initiative Cyber Saathi, Nappinai spoke passionately about its mission to educate and empower individuals, primarily children, in navigating the online world safely.
Cyber Saathi’s innovative approach trains individuals to be the first responders, equipped with the knowledge to assist friends in need, ensuring a safer digital environment.
“When I formulated the construct of cyber Saathi, the first reason was in terms of protecting soft targets online, primarily children, and of course, women and non gendered also beyond going beyond binary genders. I thought about how a millennial would think about it. If they are in trouble, they will not reach out to a parent or an authority figure, they will reach out to a friend. And when they reach out to the friend, it’s very important that that friend knows something about this domain, and is able to guide you properly,” Nappinai said, explaining the crucial role peers and community plays when tackling a victim.
Addressing the serious issue of cyberbullying, Nappinai elucidated the legal recourse available to victims. She emphasized the significance of immediate action, highlighting provisions within the Intermediary Guidelines of 2021 that facilitate swift takedowns of inappropriate content.
She also urged victims not to succumb to despair, as legal remedies and support groups offer critical assistance in such distressing situations.
Nappinai concluded with a call for educational institutions and organizations to establish support groups, fostering a sense of community and empowerment among victims. She emphasized the transformative impact of such groups in reducing the stigma associated with cybercrimes and providing solace and guidance to those affected.
In a world increasingly intertwined with technology, Advocate Nappinai N.S.’s insights stand as a beacon, guiding individuals and businesses towards responsible digital citizenship and a safer online ecosystem.
