Chandigarh’s college admission portal lacks basic encryption as session begins

Chandigarh’s college admission portal lacks basic encryption as the new academic session begins, raising concerns among applicants about the safety of their personal data. The online platform used by the Union Territory administration for undergraduate admissions does not employ HTTPS, leaving submissions vulnerable to interception and potential misuse. The portal is meant to streamline the collection of academic records, personal identifiers and payment details for prospective undergraduate students. A complainant has brought the issue to notice, urging the authorities to secure the portal immediately with a secure connection or to provide a physical alternative for those unwilling to expose their details on an unencrypted site. No official comment has been recorded from the administration. The admission cycle has already started, and students are expected to register over the coming weeks. The lack of encryption raises particular alarm given the sensitive nature of the data being submitted. Without a basic layer of encryption, each click could be logged by third parties, undermining confidence in the process. While the administration has not issued a formal response, the matter underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures in public services. Historically, many civic portals in the region have faced criticism for inadequate security, prompting calls for regular audits and adherence to standard web protocols. The current situation comes amid broader discussions about digital infrastructure in the Union Territory, where improvements in online services are seen as essential for efficient governance. Authorities have previously emphasized the importance of protecting personal data in digital services. Experts note that implementing HTTPS is a straightforward step that encrypts data in transit, protecting it from eavesdropping. They also suggest that a temporary physical kiosk or designated centres could serve as a fallback for applicants hesitant to use the online route. Such measures would align with best practices for handling sensitive personal data and with national cybersecurity guidelines for e‑governance services. The incident reflects a wider trend where citizens increasingly expect secure digital interfaces from government agencies. The concern comes at a time when the UT administration is expanding online services to improve citizen access. As college admissions continue, the onus is on the UT administration to balance accessibility with the responsibility of safeguarding applicant information. Until the portal is secured, students may have to weigh the convenience of online registration against the risk of data exposure. Local residents and education advocates have voiced support for swift action, emphasizing that the integrity of the admission process depends on trust. The debate highlights the balance between digital convenience and data protection in public administration. The outcome of this concern could set a precedent for how other municipal services handle cybersecurity in the future.

Source: Hindustan Times