CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Mukul Kulshrestha, Vice President – Cyber Security, Inspira Enterprise.
Q1. What emerging trends in the IT services and solutions industry do you believe will have the most significant impact in the next few years?
Key trends and innovations in the IT services and solutions industry are poised to reshape businesses in the coming years, with a major transition to cloud computing across organizations and industries, prompting C-suite executives to prioritize cloud cost optimization. The rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is driving all industry verticals and business units to explore innovative applications, while the increasing adoption of digital tools heightens the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Cybersecurity trends include the rising use of AI-powered security systems for enhanced threat detection and response, alongside a surge in intelligent AI-driven attacks that demand swift action from cybersecurity teams. Additionally, advancements in AI and machine learning (ML) are raising concerns about the global impact of deepfake and deep voice attacks. Businesses are leveraging generative AI (GenAI) to transform business models, improve operational efficiencies, and foster innovation, with GenAI also playing a critical role in cybersecurity by analyzing data, simulating threats, and adapting to new attack vectors.
Q2. How is Inspira Enterprise adapting to the rapid technological advancements, particularly in AI and cybersecurity?
Inspira Enterprise has significantly invested in Cyber Fusion Centers (CFCs), enabling us to provide our customers with 24/7 support and access to cybersecurity expertise in near real-time. Our CFCs, located in Mumbai, New Delhi, Dubai, Manila, and Dallas, are equipped to detect, respond to, and remediate incidents swiftly, while also offering intelligence-based analysis to prevent future threats.
Additionally, Inspira has developed a native Managed Detection and Response (MDR) platform, iMDR, which will be released to customers in 2024. This platform will feature advanced detection and hunting capabilities, along with a GenAI-enabled dashboard integrated into the iSMART2 customer portal. We are also expanding our service portfolio with innovative solutions such as deception-as-a-service and IT-OT converged Security Operations Centers (SOCs).
Inspira’s proactive approach and continuous investments position us as a forward-thinking partner in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity services.
Q3. What are the current major challenges faced by the Indian IT industry, and how is Inspira addressing them?
The cybersecurity landscape has transformed dramatically, evolving from a reactive focus on known threats to becoming a crucial business concern. The proliferation of mobile devices and remote work has led to a significant rise in cybercriminal activities, including ransomware attacks, supply chain attacks, and IoT vulnerabilities.
With over 15 years of experience and remarkable growth, Inspira Enterprise has established itself as an industry leader in cybersecurity. As a trailblazer in the cybersecurity services domain, we leverage strategic partnerships with leading security product manufacturers to offer best-in-class solutions at affordable prices, making cybersecurity accessible to organizations of all sizes. We provide comprehensive, end-to-end cybersecurity services, ranging from device and perimeter security to advanced incident monitoring, threat management, and remediation.
Our Cyber Fusion Centers in North America, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific operate on a follow-the-sun model, enabling us to offer 24x7x365 support to customers globally. Recognizing the skills gap in the cybersecurity space, we also offer training and certifications to help our customers’ teams develop the necessary expertise.
Q4. How does Inspira Enterprise plan to leverage its expertise in cybersecurity to address the growing concerns around data privacy and protection?
Inspira Enterprise has a dedicated team of privacy lawyers, data officers, and consultants who bring 60+ years of practical experience in data privacy and its associated complexities. We help organizations develop an effective data privacy and protection program to safeguard their data, navigate the regulatory landscape, and minimize the risks associated with their privacy compliance obligations. We provide comprehensive privacy assessments to help identify the gaps in data privacy controls and reduce the risks of non-compliance. Our unified data privacy processes are suitable for all major privacy laws and standards.
Inspira’s Virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO) service is ideal if organizations are looking to implement a robust data protection and privacy program but cannot hire a DPO in-house. Our team will secure the organization’s data and spearhead incident response and planning. They will also liaise with regulatory authorities as and when required.
Q5. How do you see the role of digital transformation evolving in the Indian market? What is Inspira's contribution?
Indian businesses and government agencies are effectively embracing digital transformation to drive growth and innovation. This shift has notably impacted government initiatives, with the Digital India campaign enhancing internet connectivity and digital infrastructure. The surge in online shopping is fueled by retail companies expanding their digital presence, while digital payment platforms are reducing the reliance on cash transactions. In the manufacturing sector, the integration of IT and OT has boosted operational efficiency and improved product quality and throughput. There is also an increased focus on cybersecurity and data privacy.
The digital economy in India is projected to contribute nearly 20% of the GDP by 2030. At Inspira, we assist our customers in integrating digital technologies to enhance business efficiency through innovation, automation, and improved customer experiences. Inspira is a trailblazer in the cybersecurity services domain. Our comprehensive cybersecurity services combine deep domain expertise with best-in-class technology solutions, helping enterprises and government customers eliminate blind spots, accelerate transformation, and drive growth.
Q6. Do your solutions integrate emerging technologies like blockchain, IoT, and big data?
Yes, Orchestration is the key. Any solution in Silos is a big NO to cater to emerging Threat Landscapes. All of Inspira’s offerings are inspired by iSMART2 principle which is the abbreviation of intelligent, S…… and tailored which is focused on integration, Orchestration, and Automation.
Q7. Can you share your thoughts on the importance of sustainability and how technology can play a role in this?
Sustainable practices ensure that organizations meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. These practices address climate change, environmental degradation, and pollution while promoting economic and social well-being. Technology plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability by enabling ecosystem monitoring and data-driven decision-making.
By investing in smart technologies like AI, machine learning, and blockchain, organizations can elevate their sustainability efforts. AI can optimize energy-intensive processes to ensure the maximum availability of electricity at specific times. Sensors in smart buildings can adjust lighting and heating based on occupancy. Blockchain can enhance supply chain transparency, ensuring materials are sourced responsibly, while data analytics can optimize delivery routes and improve efficiency. Big data analytics help organizations accurately measure their environmental impact.
At Inspira, we integrate sustainable practices into our digital solutions, ensuring our customers achieve both their economic and environmental goals.
Q8. Can you share some recent successes or case studies where Inspira Enterprise made a significant impact for a client?
Case Study 1: A large Indian financial institution expanding its digital footprint faced challenges in managing a distributed network of over 3,000 devices across two data centers. Securing and monitoring privileged accounts and access to critical systems was particularly daunting. Inspira’s comprehensive solution, which included network access control and privileged access management, significantly improved the organization’s security posture.
Case Study 2: A leading natural gas refining and distribution organization faced an expanding threat landscape, limited infrastructure visibility, and an overwhelming number of alerts. Inspira’s holistic solution, including SIEM implementation, SOAR integration, UEBA deployment, and vulnerability management, significantly improved the organization’s security posture. Benefits included comprehensive visibility, advanced threat detection and response capabilities, and reduced security-related downtime. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Security Operations Center was established.
Q9. Does Inspira Enterprise tailors its services to meet the specific demands of different industries? How do you maintain long-term relationships with its clients and partners?
Yes, Inspira Enterprise is known for its ability to tailor services to meet the specific demands of different industries. This customization is achieved by the built-in principle of iSMART2 where the last T stands for Tailored and through several key strategies.
Inspira develops solutions that address the unique challenges and requirements of various sectors, such as healthcare, finance, retail, manufacturing, and more. This ensures that the services provided are highly relevant and effective for each industry.
The company employs industry experts who have deep knowledge and experience in specific fields. These experts understand the intricacies of the industries they serve, enabling them to provide insights and solutions that are both innovative and practical.
This flexibility allows them to adapt their offerings to meet the changing demands of different industries.
To maintain long-term relationships with its clients and partners, Inspira Enterprise employs several key practices:
Strong Communication: Regular and transparent communication with clients ensures that their needs and expectations are met. This includes regular updates, progress reports, and feedback sessions.
Continuous Support: Offering continuous support and maintenance services helps build trust and reliability. Clients feel confident knowing that Inspira is there to assist with any issues or improvements needed over time.
Value Addition: Inspira focuses on delivering value beyond the initial project. This might include offering additional training, updates on new technologies, or proactive suggestions for further improvements.
Building Trust: By consistently delivering high-quality services and solutions that meet or exceed client expectations, Inspira builds a strong foundation of trust and reliability.
Partnership Approach: Treating client relationships as partnerships rather than transactions fosters a collaborative environment. This approach ensures that both parties are invested in the success of the projects and the long-term relationship.
These strategies help Inspira Enterprise maintain strong, long-term relationships with its clients and partners, ensuring ongoing collaboration and mutual success.
