Bhatkal, August 10: The Media Watch Committee of Majlise Islah wa Tanzeem conducted a one-day workshop on cybersecurity and cyber laws at Rabita Hall, Bhatkal.

The event aimed at raising awareness among students, social media influencers, group administrators, and community leaders about the evolving digital landscape and the importance of secure online practices.

The workshop commenced with a session by Advocate BT Venkatesh, a distinguished human rights defender and former public prosecutor of Karnataka. In his address, Venkatesh explored the multifaceted role of social media in contemporary society. He described social media as a double-edged sword—while it empowers individuals to voice their opinions and connect with broader audiences, it also exposes them to risks such as misinformation, privacy breaches, and cyberbullying. Venkatesh stressed the importance of responsible social media usage, urging the audience to be discerning about the content they consume and share.

He also highlighted how social media can be a powerful educational tool, enabling students to access a wealth of information and learn new skills.

Dr. Anant Prabhu, a leading cybersecurity expert, followed with an in-depth discussion on the critical aspects of cybersecurity and the legal framework surrounding it.

Dr. Prabhu underscored the growing threat of cybercrimes, noting that as technology advances, so do the methods used by cybercriminals. He elaborated on various forms of cybercrimes, such as phishing, identity theft, and hacking, explaining how these threats can impact individuals and organizations alike.

Dr. Prabhu emphasized the need for constant vigilance and proactive measures to protect personal and sensitive information online. He advised the audience to adopt strong passwords, use two-factor authentication, and stay updated on the latest cybersecurity practices. Additionally, he discussed the legal implications of cybercrimes, detailing the laws in place to combat such offenses and protect victims.

Both resource persons also interacted with the attendees, answering questions and offering personalized advice on how to navigate the digital world safely. They emphasized that while technology offers numerous benefits, it is essential to approach it with a cautious and informed mindset.

The event saw the participation of several notable figures from the community, including Majlise Islah wa Tanzeem President Inayathullah Shabandri, Vice President Ateequr Rahman Muniri, General Secretary Moulana Abdul Raqeeb MJ, and Admin Secretary Jailani Shabandri. The Media Watch Committee's Convener, Aftab Kola, Joint Convener Mubasshir Hallare, and committee member Misbah ul Haq Shaikh were also present. The workshop was further graced by the presence of Yunus Kazia, President of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen and a prominent businessman, as well as Qamar Sada, Vice President of the Indian Overseas Congress and an NRI businessman, among others.

The workshop concluded with an interactive session, where participants engaged in discussions with the experts, seeking guidance on various cybersecurity issues and the ethical use of social media. The event was well-received by the attendees, who appreciated the valuable insights and practical advice provided by the speakers.

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Rajouri/Jammu (PTI): Traffic on the Mughal and Sinthan Top roads, which provide alternate connectivity to Kashmir, was temporarily suspended on Sunday due to light to moderate snowfall in the high-altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

However, traffic on the 270-kilometre Jammu-Srinagar national highway -- the only all weather road linking Kashmir with the rest of the country -- was plying as usual despite intermittent rains that ended the over one-and-a-half months long dry spell, they said.

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The Mughal road, which connects the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri with south Kashmir's Shopian, was closed for traffic as a precautionary measure after more than three inches of snow was recorded at Peer Ki Gali on Sunday afternoon.

A group of three tea vendors are left stranded on the road and efforts are on to evacuate them to safety, officials said.

After they were trapped in the snow, the vendors made passionate appeals through video messages urging the authorities to rescue them. The Border Roads Organisation has taken up snow clearance work and is trying to reach the stranded persons, officials said.

The Sinthan Top road, which connects Kishtwar and Doda districts in Jammu with south Kashmir's Anantnag, was also closed after moderate snowfall in the higher reaches.

Both the mountainous roads usually remain closed for several months due to heavy snowfall during winter.