EMC Computer Systems, a division of EMC Corp. and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which the two entities will work towards enhancing the overall security of the computing environment in the country.

The MoU entails technical co-operation, information exchange, knowledge sharing, emergency response and coordination, training as well as customer education between the two parties.

Commenting on the announcement, Gulshan Rai, Director, CERT-In, said, "Governments, businesses and consumers across the country are increasingly faced with cyber threats and there is a clear need to improve computer security readiness and raise awareness around the importance of keeping systems secure, software up to date and adopting appropriate security practices and procedures. We have always encouraged support from technology leaders like EMC, who has the expertise and experience to combat hostile information security situations. We are confident that the association will go a long way in improving the cyber security in the country."

Both EMC and CERT-In have already identified key areas and common objectives for tackling cyber crime and computer security threats such as unauthorized access, phishing and virus attacks in the country.

Steve Leonard, Senior Vice President, EMC Corp., Vice President, EMC Asia Pacific and Japan, said, "The MoU is a significant step forward in this direction. Both EMC and Cert-In recognize that along with the benefits of increased computer connectivity, there are a host of new risks with computer hackers exploiting the vulnerabilities in the software and computer system."