Cyber Crime
Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF) Partners with UPSIFS to Strengthen Cybersecurity and Forensic Science Research
Lucknow: To bolster cybersecurity, digital forensics, and emerging technologies, the Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF) and the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS) have entered into a landmark collaboration. The two institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), setting the stage for a long-term partnership aimed at enhancing research capabilities, providing cutting-edge training, and offering educational opportunities in the rapidly evolving fields of cybersecurity and forensic science.
A Visionary Collaboration
This pivotal agreement was signed under the leadership of Dr. GK Goswami, IPS, Additional Director General of UP Police and Director of UPSIFS. Renowned for his expertise in forensic science and cybersecurity, Dr. Goswami’s vision has been instrumental in positioning UPSIFS as a leading institute for advanced studies in forensic science and digital security. His commitment to public safety through education and research played a crucial role in bringing this collaboration to fruition.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Goswami emphasized the importance of this partnership in fostering a safer digital future, noting that the MOU will significantly advance forensic research, cybersecurity infrastructure, and professional training across the region.
The formal signing took place today at the UPSIFS headquarters in Lucknow, with Shri Rajeev Malhotra, Additional Director of UPSIFS, and Prof. Triveni Singh, Chief Mentor of FCRF, leading the agreement, accompanied by senior representatives from both organizations.
Strategic Objectives of the MOU
The MOU between FCRF and UPSIFS aims to achieve several strategic goals, each designed to strengthen the country’s digital resilience and forensic science capabilities. These objectives include:
- Collaboration in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics: Both FCRF and UPSIFS will work together to develop joint research initiatives and training programs that focus on cybersecurity, digital forensics, fraud risk management, and related emerging technologies.
- Student Engagement and Public Awareness: The agreement opens doors for students and scholars to engage in internship programs and participate in the creation of online courses. These courses will target a wide audience, from academia to professionals and the general public, to enhance digital literacy and raise awareness about cybersecurity threats.
- Joint Research and Publications: FCRF and UPSIFS will collaborate on a range of research activities, academic publications, and workshops to promote knowledge-sharing and the dissemination of best practices in the field of cybersecurity and forensic science.
- Capacity Building and Skill Development: A key focus of the collaboration is organizing seminars, workshops, and training sessions aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals in law enforcement, forensic science, and the legal domain. This will benefit judicial officers, forensic experts, police officers, and others who play a vital role in maintaining public safety.
- Educational Exchange Programs: Faculty members, scientists, and students from both organizations will benefit from exchange programs. These initiatives will allow participants to share expertise, gain access to advanced research resources, and collaborate on projects of mutual interest.
Enhancing Cybersecurity and Forensic Science Education
Prof. Triveni Singh, Chief Mentor of FCRF, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting its potential to revolutionize cybersecurity research and forensic science education in India. “This collaboration will significantly strengthen the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure while advancing public outreach and education. Together with UPSIFS, we aim to create a cyber-safe ecosystem, making digital spaces more secure for everyone,” Prof. Singh remarked.
Fostering Innovation Through Joint Projects
The collaboration is designed to encourage innovation through joint research projects. Both organizations will pool their intellectual and infrastructural resources to foster breakthrough discoveries. Research scholars from both institutions will benefit from using shared facilities, with the potential for significant advancements in cybersecurity and digital forensics.
Additionally, intellectual property (IP) developed as part of this partnership will be co-owned by both institutions. The IP will be used for non-commercial purposes, ensuring that research findings contribute to the public good and serve broader societal interests.
Empowering the Next Generation of Experts
With a clear focus on education, the MOU will also support Ph.D. candidates working in interdisciplinary areas of forensic science, law, and technology. These candidates will have the opportunity to work under the joint supervision of experts from FCRF and UPSIFS, ensuring they receive comprehensive, real-world training and mentorship.
This partnership between FCRF and UPSIFS will also explore opportunities to apply for funding from national and international agencies. By pooling their collective knowledge and expertise, both organizations are poised to secure funding for cutting-edge research that addresses the most pressing digital and forensic challenges facing India today.
Building a Future-Ready Ecosystem
Through a series of awareness campaigns, public outreach efforts, and training programs, FCRF and UPSIFS aim to empower communities across India to better understand cybersecurity threats. This collaboration is a vital step toward building a future-ready ecosystem that is resilient against new-age digital crimes and security threats.
Both institutions are committed to ensuring that their research findings, educational programs, and capacity-building efforts reach a wide audience. With a shared mission to create a cyber-safe India, this partnership will play a critical role in safeguarding the country’s digital landscape while advancing forensic science education.
About Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF)
The Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF), incubated by IIT Kanpur’s AIIDE-CoE, is a non-profit organization specializing in research on cybersecurity, digital crime, cyber law, and cyber forensics. Its mission is to make India more digitally secure by offering deep insights into modern-day cyber threats and building a knowledge-sharing ecosystem to foster a cyber-safe India.
About Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS)
Established in 2022 by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS) is a premier institution offering specialized courses in forensic science, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. The institute aims to set global standards in forensic education and laboratory procedures, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and protocols.