Papua New Guinea's (PNG) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Minister, Timothy Masiu, has sounded the alarm on the escalating risks posed by state-sponsored cyber threats to the nation's cybersecurity. Minister Masiu cautioned that these threats, whether originating from private entities or state actors, have the potential to wreak havoc on PNG's digital infrastructure, plunging the country into chaos. Of particular concern are ransomware attacks, malicious scripts or programs designed to block access to digital systems or data. Minister Masiu cited a notable incident in 2021 where a ransomware attack paralyzed the finance department, necessitating a staggering K30 million for system reconstruction. Attributing PNG's vulnerability to its rapid digitalization pace and insufficient awareness of cybersecurity practices, Minister Masiu underscored the urgent need for action. These concerns were recently deliberated upon during discussions between Minister Masiu and Australia's cybersecurity ambassador, Brandon Dowling, in Port Moresby. During the meeting, Minister Masiu and Ambassador Dowling exchanged insights on cybersecurity, cyber safety, and cybercrime. Notably, a national cybersecurity strategy is pending cabinet approval, reflecting the government's commitment to addressing these pressing issues. Highlighting the collaborative nature of cybersecurity defense, ICT Department secretary Steven Matainaho emphasized PNG's partnership with Australia and the United States to bolster its cybersecurity capabilities. In response to the evolving threat landscape, PNG has taken proactive steps to enhance its cybersecurity posture. This includes the introduction of a cybersecurity policy in 2021 and the establishment of a dedicated unit within the Department of Information and Communications Technology, now fully operational. Moreover, initiatives are underway to train personnel from both public and private sectors in cybersecurity and cyber safety measures. Efforts to regulate internet content filtering, in conjunction with the Department of Community Development, are also in progress. With cabinet approval secured, both departments are collaborating to devise protocols to mitigate access to harmful online content, such as pornography. Minister Masiu stressed the importance of guidance from the National Censorship Board in implementing effective content filtering measures. The National ICT Authority stands ready to implement these protocols pending the issuance of relevant guidelines. As PNG continues its digital transformation journey, safeguarding its digital assets and citizens against emerging cyber threats remains paramount. Also read
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