Sharad Agarwal

Tell us a bit about you. 

I grew up in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, a small valley in the Himalayas. My passion for computing led me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering at Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Chennai.  

After graduating, I joined the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, where I worked in the Computer Security Team and the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) Experiment for nearly three years.  

Being at the world’s largest particle physics lab emphasised the value of research and deepened my interest in cybersecurity, guiding me to pursue a Master’s in Information Security at UCL.  

How would you describe the Information Security MSc in three words?  

Fundamental, Insightful, and Intensive 

What are you doing now?  

I’m currently a third-year Ph.D. candidate at UCL Computer Science, focusing on combating online financial fraud.  

My research has explored the concentration of online Ponzi schemes (HYIPs) in the UK, examined the growing issue of rugpulls, a new investment scam in decentralised finance (DeFi), and identified the various types of SMS scams in the UK.  

I recently studied a new type of SMS impersonation fraud - “hi mum and dad” SMS scam.  

I collaborate with industry stakeholders to gather data and perform cybercrime analysis, which helps propose potential countermeasures. 

Alongside my Ph.D., I also work at Stop Scams UK, a not-for-profit organisation based in London that works to stop scams at source. 

Coming into your Master’s, did you know you wanted to do a PhD?  

Initially, I pursued my Master’s to expand my knowledge in cybersecurity and cybercrime, without a set plan to do a Ph.D.  

However, while working on my Master’s thesis, I discovered the potential to leverage both technical and research skills to tackle open challenges in cybercrime.  

After graduation, I joined the University of Bristol’s Cyber Security Group, where I built the first-ever tabletop testbed to study cybersecurity in smart dairy farming— an experience that ignited my enthusiasm for hands-on research.  

Together with my research background at CERN and my Master’s thesis, my time at Bristol confirmed that pursuing a Ph.D. would be the natural next step to continue advancing research in cybercrime. 

What impact does your work have on society?  

My research aims to combat online financial fraud, which has significant economic implications worldwide. By analysing data and proposing countermeasures, it informs policy decisions to curb cybercrime.  

The Times cited my work on online Ponzi schemes to support The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill that became a law in 2023.  

Law enforcement agencies such as the National Crime Agency (NCA) and the City of London Police, regulators like Ofcom, and industry stakeholders actively use my findings to guide their initiatives.  

I also contributed to public consultations by the Spanish government on telecom scams and by Ofcom on reducing mobile messaging scams. 

Once you’ve completed your PhD, what direction would you like to take?  

During my PhD, I obtained the Global Talent Visa from the UK Home Office, enabling me to stay and work in the UK.  

After completing my PhD, I plan to launch a startup that continues my research, develops solutions to combat online scams, and supports law enforcement with efficient investigations and intelligence. 

What are you most proud of from your time at UCL?

I completed my Master’s at UCL during the global pandemic, a challenging period for everyone. Despite the disruptions, I successfully finished my thesis and graduated with distinction, receiving the Dean’s List award—an achievement I’m especially proud of. 

 What does your role at Stop Scams UK involve?  

Stop Scams UK is a tri-sector collaboration among banking, telecom, and tech organizations, aiming to prevent scams at their source.  

I began as a Research Intern, studying “Hi Mum and Dad” SMS scams, and have since taken on the role of Product Analyst.  

In this position, I collaborate with key member firms like Meta, BT, Gamma,  

Lloyds, and Santander to develop innovative solutions and gather intelligence towards combating scams across the UK. 

What skills from your Master’s have you found most applicable in your daily work?  

My Master’s in Information Security at UCL equipped me with solid research skills and a broader perspective for tackling complex problems. I apply these capabilities daily to develop and implement innovative solutions aimed at countering online financial fraud. 

What was the most challenging part of your Master’s and why?  

Completing my Master’s at UCL during the COVID pandemic was particularly challenging due to the limited in-person interactions. Being in a new country and unable to regularly meet faculty and peers made it difficult to build the networks and support systems that are so crucial for a Master’s programme. 

The information on this page reflects the graduate's status at the time of publication (May 2025).