Zscaler and ISAC join forces with CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic to empower students against digital threats
In a significant stride toward building a cyber-resilient academic ecosystem, Panjab University, in collaboration with the Cyber Wellness Clinic (PU-CWC), launched an expansive Cyber Security Awareness Program, drawing students, faculty, researchers, and cybersecurity experts into a unified movement against digital threats.
The event, spearheaded by the Department of Defence and National Security Studies, welcomed esteemed guests and thought leaders in the cybersecurity space. Dr. Jaskaran Singh Waraich, Chairperson of the department, opened the session, emphasizing the university’s commitment to preparing students for emerging challenges in the digital age.
At the core of this initiative lies the CopConnect Cyber Wellness Clinic, a national program now established at Panjab University’s South Campus, Sector-25. Developed in partnership with Zscaler, a global leader in cloud security, and Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC), the clinic is a first-of-its-kind facility designed to provide free cybersecurity assistance and education to the university community and general public.
Zscaler: Enabling a Culture of Cyber Vigilance
As cyber threats evolve at breakneck speed, Zscaler has taken a bold step in driving public-private collaboration to create real, on-ground impact. Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Zscaler is actively supporting the CopConnect initiative to foster awareness, resilience, and digital safety among India’s student population.
Karishma Bhuyan, CSR Head at Zscaler, was present at the launch and reiterated Zscaler’s vision:
“Cybersecurity is no longer the concern of just IT professionals. It’s everyone’s responsibility. Through CopConnect, we aim to empower students, educators, and communities with the tools and knowledge to defend themselves online.”
Clinic Offerings: Where Awareness Meets Action
The clinic goes beyond just dialogue. It brings tangible tools and expertise to the forefront, ensuring students and cybercrime victims receive timely support:
- Hacked or Not (HONK) Machine: A first-response diagnostic kiosk that scans mobile devices for spyware, malware, and unsafe apps.
- On-Demand Victim Support: A multi-disciplinary team of cyber experts, psychologists, lawyers, and digital forensic analysts helps individuals navigate incidents like data theft, scams, cyberbullying, and harassment.
- 1930 Helpline Guidance: Victims are educated on official government channels to report cybercrime and receive lawful intervention.
- Career Mentorship: The clinic doubles as an educational hub where students gain exposure to careers in cyber law, cyber psychology, forensics, and ethical hacking.
Educating and Empowering the Community
Cybercrime is no longer confined to financial fraud—it is increasingly psychological, emotional, and invasive. During the awareness session, Tarun Malhotra, founder of Cyber Cops, highlighted the dangerous use of AI-driven deepfake videos, phishing scams, and children’s gaming apps to perpetrate large-scale fraud.
He advocated for a “Zero Trust” mindset when navigating the digital space:
“Don’t trust—verify. Every link, every request for information, every interaction online must be approached with caution.”
National Recognition and Expansion
The Panjab University clinic is the fifth CopConnect center in India, following successful implementations in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Delhi. Plans are underway to expand to NITTTR Chandigarh, creating a network of cyber first-responders across educational institutions.
Dr. Tulika Pandey, Group Coordinator at the Ministry of Electronics & IT, lauded the effort, stating:
“In an age of endless digital connectivity, cyber wellness is not optional—it is foundational. Initiatives like CopConnect, backed by Zscaler and ISAC, are leading the charge in redefining how India approaches digital safety.”
A Powerful Case for Change
The clinic’s real-world impact is already visible. In one moving case study, a university student facing persistent cyber harassment found solace and support through the CopConnect App. The team’s swift action led to the identification of the perpetrator and gave the student both justice and renewed confidence. She now advocates for cyber safety among her peers, turning pain into purpose.
Toward a Safer Digital Tomorrow
The Cyber Security Awareness Program at Panjab University is more than just a seminar—it is a catalyst for cultural change. With powerful partnerships between academia, government, and industry leaders like Zscaler, the university is setting a national example of what proactive cyber defense looks like.
As Group Captain P. Anand Naidu, founder of CopConnect, rightly stated:
“The Cyber Wellness Clinic is not just a facility—it’s a movement.”
