Financial Crime World

Cybercrime Threats Loom Large Over Gambia’s Financial Institutions: PURA Moves to Strengthen Defenses

Combating the Growing Menace of Cybercrime

The Public Utilities Regulation Authority (PURA) has successfully completed the first phase of setting up the Gambia Computer Security and Incident Response Team (gmCSIRT). This team is tasked with enhancing cybersecurity posture for The Gambia and supporting all Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) holders.

Initial Phase Success

The initial phase, fully funded by PURA with financial and technical assistance from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), involved:

  • Location and equipping of an office
  • Staffing
  • Initial engagements with stakeholders This collaborative effort between PURA and the Ministry of Information and Communication Infrastructure (MOICI) has set the stage for a strong foundation.

Achievements to Date

The gmCSIRT has already achieved several milestones, including:

  • Conducting ground exercises and engagements with key institutions
  • Providing cyber-awareness and technical training to over 50 government, parastatal, and private CIIs
  • Training IT security staff and experts from these institutions at the end of 2020, with financial assistance from the World Bank

Next Phase: Activation and Enhancement

The team’s next phase includes:

  • Activating support systems
  • Deeper interaction with constituents in cybercrime prevention, restoration, and skills enhancements This will involve:
    • Remediation of cybercrime incidents
    • Threat information dissemination
    • Coordination among sectors to streamline security efforts

Oversight and Support

A board will be constituted to oversee the activities of the gmCSIRT as outlined in its plan. The team is currently finalizing the list of supported CIIs and is expected to commence support and active engagements soon.

Significance and Timing

The establishment of the gmCSIRT comes at a critical time, with financial institutions in Gambia facing an increasing number of cyber threats. PURA’s move is seen as a crucial step in strengthening defenses against these threats and protecting the country’s digital ecosystem.