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The University of Wollongong (UOW) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have joined forces in a pioneering effort funded by the Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership. This grant, facilitated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is poised to advance the field of privacy in cloud computing, a critical domain in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Heading this ambitious project is Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo, an ARC Australian Laureate Fellow at UOW. His team, which includes experts such as Dr. Khoa Nguyen, Dr. Yannan Li (an ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award Fellow), and Dr Partha Sarathi Roy, will collaborate with Professor Manindra Agrawal from IIT Kanpur. Together, they are committed to exploring and developing practical cryptographic techniques that enhance privacy in cloud computing.
Cloud computing has become an indispensable component of contemporary life, permeating various aspects, from data storage and processing to document sharing and international collaboration. However, this ubiquity also introduces significant challenges when it comes to safeguarding sensitive information. While the art of digital cryptography offers essential tools for data protection in the cloud, conventional techniques may not be sufficiently equipped to address the unique privacy and security intricacies presented by modern cloud computing.
A key aspect of this initiative involves the standardisation of cryptographic techniques. Standardisation ensures that these methods are not only robust but also interoperable, capable of seamless integration across diverse cloud platforms, applications, and countries.
The primary objective of this project is to identify standardisation challenges within the realm of cloud computing privacy and security, both in Australia and India. Subsequently, these challenges will be met head-on with innovative privacy-enhancing cryptographic methodologies. The research team will evaluate the effectiveness of existing technologies, measuring their real-world impact, and validating whether they achieve the desired standardisation levels.
Professor Susilo underscores the strategic importance of this endeavour, stating that it will position UOW firmly within India through collaborative research efforts. UOW’s Institute of Cybersecurity and Cryptology has consistently been at the forefront of cybersecurity research in Australia. This project will leverage its strategic position and foster a robust partnership with its Indian counterpart, IIT Kanpur. Furthermore, it has the potential to strengthen Australia-India collaboration in the realm of cybersecurity standardisation, promising a future marked by enhanced digital security and privacy.
In addition to its academic partnerships, the team will leverage the support of industry giants. These corporate collaborations will provide invaluable resources and real-world insights to inform the development of privacy-enhancing cryptographic techniques. Simultaneously, the project will also engage with startups from UOW’s business incubator, iAccelarate and Indian companies, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that spans the spectrum of technological innovation.
Recognising the complexity and multifaceted nature of privacy concerns in cloud computing, the project will also tap into the expertise of the UOW School of Law. Legal scholars will provide consultation and insights, ensuring that the research aligns seamlessly with privacy and legal standards, further enhancing its practicality and real-world applicability.
The significance of this collaborative effort transcends borders and disciplines. By addressing the critical challenges posed by cloud computing security and privacy, it not only advances the field of cryptography but also contributes to the broader goals of cybersecurity and technological innovation. As our reliance on cloud computing continues to grow, ensuring the privacy and security of sensitive data is paramount. This project promises to deliver tangible solutions that will not only benefit Australia and India but also have a ripple effect, influencing global standards in the field of cloud computing privacy and security.
The partnership between the University of Wollongong and the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, supported by the Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership grant, represents a significant step forward in the quest to enhance privacy in cloud computing.
With a diverse team of experts, strong industry collaborations, and a commitment to standardisation, this initiative holds the promise of advancing both the academic and practical aspects of cybersecurity, contributing to a safer and more secure digital future for all.
