GS3 2024 Q20 15 marks 250 words Cyber security

UPSC Mains 2024 GS3 Q20 — Cyber security

Social media and encrypting messaging services pase a serious security challenge. What measures have been adopted at varous levels to address the security implications of social media? Also suggest any other remedies to address the problem. (Answer in 250 words) 15

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Question Decoded — examiner's intent

Directive verbs
Whataddresssuggest
Scope keywords
Social mediaencrypting messaging servicesserious security challengemeasures have been adoptedvarious levelsremedies to address the problem
Implicit sub-parts
  • The specific nature of security threats (radicalization, fake news, end-to-end encryption hindering lawful interception).
  • Institutional, legislative, and international measures already in place.
  • The conflict between national security and the fundamental right to privacy (Article 21).
  • Technological and policy-based solutions for the future.
Common pitfalls
  • Focusing only on 'fake news' while ignoring the technical challenges of end-to-end encryption (E2EE).
  • Neglecting the 'various levels' aspect—failing to mention international cooperation or individual platform responsibility.
  • Writing a generic essay on social media pros and cons instead of focusing on 'security implications'.
  • Failing to mention specific Indian frameworks like the IT Rules 2021 or the role of CERT-In.
  • Proposing overly draconian remedies that ignore democratic safeguards and privacy.
Dimensions required
Legislative/RegulatoryTechnological/TechnicalInstitutional/AdministrativeGeopolitical/InternationalEthical/Rights-based
Marks allocation hint

Allocate 3 marks to briefly defining the security challenges (E2EE, misinformation, cyber-terrorism). Spend 6 marks on existing measures at various levels (IT Rules 2021, I4C, international protocols). Use the final 6 marks for forward-looking remedies and a balanced conclusion on the security-privacy trade-off.

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