Progga Das

The world is now advancing along the technological superhighway of the 21st century, where cyber security has become an inevitable reality. Bangladesh is also treading the path of transformation by moving from a developing nation to the dream of building a "Smart Bangladesh." This journey, transitioning from "Digital Bangladesh" to "Smart Bangladesh," is founded entirely on technology. While technological advancements are reshaping the economy, society, and administration at every level, the challenges of cyber security are becoming increasingly evident.Today, weapons are no longer just guns ,they have transformed into codes. Enemies do not merely cross borders; they silently infiltrate servers from across the screen, striking the backbone of the economy and penetrating the state's confidential databases. This is the new form of warfare ,one without the sound of explosions, yet with catastrophic destruction.

With a single click, millions of dollars vanish, national grids are silently disrupted, and military and diplomatic documents are leaked.A cyber attack is not just about hacking a website; it is a calculated conspiracy to paralyze an entire nation without a sound. If the dream of Smart Bangladesh is not protected by the armor of cyber security, technological progress will turn into self-destruction. Without a strong cyber sector, Bangladesh will not move forward on the technological superhighway it will stagnate. A lack of cyber security means the collapse of digital sovereignty. Therefore, it is crucial to remove the veil of complacency and face the harsh reality: a nation weak in cyber security cannot survive in the global technological battlefield.Cyber security refers to the processes through which digital data and networks are safeguarded. It is a form of defense system that protects against cyber attacks, data breaches, malware, phishing, and hacking. The world stands at the threshold of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by an unprecedented wave of technological advancement.For an emerging economy like Bangladesh, technology holds the key to prosperity. But cyber attacks, data breaches, digital crimes, and a lack of security pose serious threats to this progress. While technological development has made life easier, it has simultaneously amplified the threats to cyber security.Bangladesh's economy is increasingly reliant on digital platforms. From government services to financial transactions, business, healthcare, and education technology’s influence is omnipresent.

Therefore, a cyber attack does not only cause financial damage; it jeopardizes national security, personal privacy, and overall stability.To address the existing vulnerabilities in Bangladesh’s cyber security, urgent steps must be taken to strengthen the sector. The enforcement of existing laws must be ensured, and flaws in the current cyber laws must be identified and rectified. A stronger cyber policy and legal framework must be developed by reforming the Digital Security Act in line with international standards and enacting a "Data Protection Act" for safeguarding information.Cyber security courses should be made mandatory at universities. Joint cyber drills must be conducted in collaboration with both government and private institutions. Alarmingly, many organizations show little inclination to use advanced technology to secure their networks and software.

To protect the country from cyber threats, modernizing security measures with cutting-edge technology is essential. Establishing AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning)-based security systems is now a necessity.A "Threat Intelligence Platform" could be introduced for government and private institutions. Most importantly, Bangladesh currently faces a shortage of cyber security experts. According to the Global Cyber Security Index, the country lags behind due to a lack of skilled manpower. By developing cyber security professionals, both domestic and international job opportunities can be created strengthening the cyber sector while also reducing unemployment.A dedicated government agency for cyber security must be established.

The lack of proper coordination between government and private organizations often makes it difficult to prevent cyber attacks. By creating a central agency and forming a cyber army or cyber police team under its jurisdiction, Bangladesh’s cyber defense can be significantly bolstered.Another crucial aspect of cyber security is raising public awareness. Many organizations and individuals still lack a proper understanding of password management, phishing, and ransomware. As a result, they unknowingly click on harmful links, inviting disaster. Therefore, workshops and seminars should be arranged to educate people about cyber threats and preventive measures.Additionally, cyber security should be incorporated into textbooks from the secondary and higher secondary levels, ensuring that students gain adequate knowledge about the subject.Cyber security is no longer an option, it is the weapon to build a Smart Bangladesh.

If we fail to combat the hidden enemies lurking behind codes, the dream of Smart Bangladesh will crumble into dust. Development is not achieved merely through technology, it requires secure technology.By ensuring the proper use of information, enacting robust cyber laws, and increasing technological awareness among the public, Bangladesh can transform into a cyber-aware and secure state. Every digital infrastructure of the nation must be safeguarded with an impenetrable cyber shield.Individuals, organizations, the government, and all sectors of society must work collectively to strengthen cyber defense. It is not enough to simply ride the wave of technology, we must win this cyber war to protect our digital future. Only then can Bangladesh establish itself as a secure, progressive, and advanced nation in the global cyber landscape.

The writer is a Student, Department of Economics Eden Mohila College