Atomic Asher, headquartered in Mumbai, stands out among cybersecurity startups for utilizing cutting-edge technologies like AI to safeguard ordinary individuals from modern digital risks.
Established in 2021 by Anirudh Asher, the startup provides applications such as ‘QR Safety by Atomic Asher,’ which aids in identifying malicious QR codes and URLs. Additionally, it offers a web application known as ‘WhatsApp Number Cleaner,’ enabling users to remove unwanted contacts for direct chatting without saving their numbers. Another notable offering is the ‘Anti-counterfeiting App,’ designed to help users differentiate between counterfeit and authentic products.
In an interview with founder and CEO Asher, we delved into the startup’s origins, operational mechanisms, and future plans. Here are the summarized insights:
What inspired the idea behind Atomic Asher, and how do your QR safety and anti-counterfeiting platforms function?
The idea emerged from recognizing a significant gap in digital security, especially with the widespread use of QR codes and the escalating counterfeiting of branded goods like pharmaceuticals. This led to the development of solutions aimed at safeguarding users and communities from potential threats.
Regarding our safety platforms, users can simply scan a QR code using the app, which then cross-references the code against a database of known threats and scrutinizes the linked URL for any suspicious activity, ensuring secure interactions. For our anti-counterfeiting initiative, we’ve devised proprietary technology that elevates QR technology to a more advanced level.
Can you explain your revenue generation model?
Our revenue model comprises a mix of premium app subscriptions, partnerships with cybersecurity firms, and customized enterprise solutions geared towards long-term value. Overall, we charge brands to aid in protecting their customer base from scams and counterfeits.
What are the industry’s key challenges that remain unaddressed, and how do you plan to tackle them?
A significant unaddressed challenge lies in the sophistication of digital threats. Our strategy combines ongoing research with technological advancements to stay ahead of evolving threats. Additionally, we believe there’s a lack of focus among many organizations on developing technology for the greater good, often prioritizing profits over ethical practices.
What are your short-term and long-term goals for product and business expansion and diversification?
In the short term, our goals involve expanding our user base and refining our technology stack. Looking ahead, our long-term objectives center on geographical expansion and diversifying our product lineup to encompass a wider array of security solutions. We aspire to emerge as a leading entity in safeguarding the Indian diaspora from health, identity, and digital security threats.
