Quick Heal Technologies Limited has partnered with the Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD), Lucknow, in a strategic move to bolster cybersecurity within Rural Financial Institutions (RFIs) across India. This collaboration comes at a crucial time as digital transformation sweeps through rural finance, increasing the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive financial data.
Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding on 13 January 2025, the partnership leverages Quick Heal’s three decades of cybersecurity expertise and BIRD’s deep rooted understanding of rural finance. A key highlight of this initiative is the establishment of an advanced Cybersecurity Lab at BIRD Lucknow. This state of the art facility will provide hands-on training and skill development to strengthen cybersecurity practices within RFIs.
The collaboration also includes conducting joint research to assess cybersecurity adoption, analyse existing technological infrastructure, and identify skill gaps. Specialised training modules and workshops will be developed to promote best practices in cyber hygiene and fraud prevention. Furthermore, the initiative involves policy advocacy, cyber drills to test RFIs’ preparedness against emerging threats, and creating a knowledge exchange platform for experts and stakeholders in the cybersecurity and rural finance sectors.
By merging Quick Heal’s leadership in malware analysis and cybersecurity with BIRD’s insights into rural financial systems, the partnership aims to equip RFIs with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate digital risks effectively. This strategic alliance not only enhances financial security but also supports secure financial inclusion in rural India.
With the MoU set to be in effect for three years, both organisations reaffirm their commitment to developing cybersecurity programmes tailored to the unique needs of RFIs. This partnership marks a pivotal step towards building a more resilient and secure digital ecosystem for rural finance.
