Meet Tarun Gaur, Founder of Qikfox

Tarun Parashar Gaur is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of Qikfox, a revolutionary web browser designed to enhance internet security and privacy. With over 24 years of experience in the tech industry, including roles at Microsoft, Deloitte Consulting, and HP, Tarun has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation.

In 2008, Tarun founded Tringapps, a successful software consulting firm that he grew to 500 employees before its acquisition by Mobile Gaming Technologies in 2018. Following this, Tarun Parashar served as VP of Blockchain at Mobile Gaming Technologies until 2019, when he embarked on his latest venture: Qikfox.

Qikfox represents Tarun’s vision for a more secure, private, and user-friendly internet experience. The browser incorporates advanced security features, including quantum-resistant cryptography and decentralized identity solutions, setting it apart in the crowded browser market.

We sat down with Tarun to discuss his journey, his vision for Qikfox, and his thoughts on the future of internet security.

Where did the idea for your company come from?

The idea for Qikfox has been with me since my college days. I always felt something was fundamentally wrong with the internet, particularly regarding security and privacy. As technologies evolved and open-source solutions became more available, I realized it was the perfect time to build a horizontal platform that could address these issues.

The final push came when my mother fell victim to a $600 scam. Her experience highlighted the urgent need for a more secure internet, especially for vulnerable users. That’s when I decided to gather a team, many of whom I’d worked with before, to create Qikfox and make the internet more safe, trustworthy, and reliable for everyone.

What does your typical day look like, and how do you make it productive?

My days are diverse and dynamic. I split my time between strategic planning, team meetings, and hands-on development work. I’m deeply involved in every aspect of Qikfox, from refining our security features to planning our market strategy.

To stay productive, I maintain a rigorous schedule but also allow flexibility for creative thinking and problem-solving. I believe in the power of collaboration, so I ensure regular interactions with my team to brainstorm ideas and tackle challenges collectively.

How do you bring ideas to life?

At Qikfox, we have a talented team that helps transform ideas into reality. When we have a new concept, we first evaluate its potential impact on our users’ security and privacy. Then, we break it down into actionable steps and assign responsibilities across the team.

We also leverage our team’s diverse expertise. For instance, our recent venture into NFTs came from a team suggestion. This collaborative approach ensures we’re always innovating and staying ahead of the curve in internet security.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m particularly excited about the growing awareness of internet security and privacy issues among users. We’re seeing a shift where people are becoming more conscious of their digital footprint and seeking solutions to protect their online presence.

This trend aligns perfectly with our mission at Qikfox. As more users prioritize their online safety, we’re well-positioned to provide the tools and technology they need to navigate the internet securely.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

One habit that’s crucial to my productivity is maintaining a balance between big-picture thinking and attention to detail. I always try to keep our overall mission in mind while also focusing on the specific steps needed to achieve it.

I also make it a point to stay updated with the latest developments in cybersecurity and blockchain technology. This habit ensures that Qikfox remains at the cutting edge of internet security solutions.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to trust in the power of persistence and innovation. The tech industry moves rapidly, and it’s easy to get discouraged when faced with challenges. However, I’ve learned that with determination and a willingness to adapt, it’s possible to create solutions that can truly make a difference.

I’d also emphasize the importance of building strong, diverse teams. The success of Qikfox is as much about the talented individuals working on it as it is about the technology itself.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

I believe that you can’t effectively solve privacy issues without first addressing safety and security. Many browsers focus solely on privacy features, but if a user falls for a phishing scam or malware, their privacy is immediately compromised. At Qikfox, we’re tackling these issues holistically, which sets us apart in the browser market.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

I consistently challenge the status quo and ask, “How can we make this better?” This applies not just to our products but also to our processes and strategies. I encourage everyone on my team to do the same. Innovation doesn’t always mean creating something entirely new; often, it’s about improving what already exists.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

Our strategy at Qikfox has been to focus on solving fundamental internet problems while also designing for the future. We’re not just creating another browser; we’re building a platform for a trustworthy internet. This approach has helped us differentiate ourselves in a crowded market and attract users who are looking for comprehensive internet security solutions.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

In my previous ventures, I sometimes tried to do too much on my own, which led to burnout and decreased productivity. I overcame this by learning to delegate and trust my team. At Qikfox, I’ve built a strong team of experts in various fields, allowing me to focus on what I do best while ensuring every aspect of the business is handled by someone with the right expertise.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Here’s an idea: consider developing applications that leverage decentralized identity solutions. As we move towards a more privacy-conscious internet, there’s a growing need for apps that allow users to control their personal data while still providing seamless experiences. The potential in this space is enormous, especially as awareness of data privacy issues continues to grow.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

Recently, I invested in a comprehensive online course about quantum computing and its implications for cybersecurity. While it might seem a bit technical, understanding these emerging technologies is crucial for staying ahead in the internet security space. This knowledge has been invaluable in shaping our approach to quantum-resistant cryptography at Qikfox.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

We use a variety of tools at Qikfox, but one that’s been particularly helpful is our custom-built project management system. It integrates elements of agile methodology with our specific needs for security development. This tool helps us stay organized, track progress, and ensure that every team member is aligned with our goals.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

I highly recommend “The Code Book” by Simon Singh. It provides a fascinating history of cryptography and its importance in the digital age. Understanding the evolution of encryption and security measures gives valuable context to the challenges we face today in internet security. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the field of cybersecurity.

What is your favorite quote?

One quote that resonates with me is from Grace Hopper: “The most dangerous phrase in the language is, ‘We’ve always done it this way.'” This perfectly encapsulates our approach at Qikfox. We’re not content with the current state of internet security; we’re always looking for new and better ways to protect our users.

What are the Key Learnings From Tarun Gaur?

1. Internet security requires a holistic approach, addressing safety, security, and privacy.
2. Innovation often comes from improving existing systems rather than creating entirely new ones.
3. Building a strong, diverse team is crucial for success in the tech industry.
4. Staying ahead in cybersecurity requires continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies.