Financial Crime World

Kiribati Launches National Cyber Security Strategy to Enhance Online Safety

The Government of Kiribati has launched the “Kiribati National Cyber Security Strategy 2020” to protect its citizens from cyber threats and promote online safety.

  • The strategy outlines plans for Kiribati to submit requests for mutual legal assistance and timely respond to requests submitted to authorities in other countries.
  • A report on findings and recommendations will be submitted to Parliament after endorsement from the Cabinet.

Cybersecurity Capacity Enhancement

  • Kiribati CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team) will provide a list of capacity-building programs related to cybersecurity that Kiribati could benefit from.
  • The team will also develop a roadmap outlining different capacity activities required by the country, identify potential programs, and make suggestions on which programs cover which activity.

National Incident Reporting

  • The strategy encourages citizens, businesses, and governments to report cyber incidents, with critical national infrastructure providers obliged to submit such reports.
  • CERTKiribati will:
    • Develop routines to detect recent trends in cybersecurity incidents
    • Create an emergency level system
    • Summarize incidents in a reporting format
    • Provide background information

Education and Awareness

  • The strategy prioritizes education and awareness about cybersecurity, particularly among children.
  • The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Sport and Social Affairs will work with CERTKiribati to develop a curriculum that ensures all students receive at least once a year an updated training on cybersecurity.

Critical Infrastructure Protection

  • The government has recognized the importance of protecting critical infrastructure, such as:
    • Healthcare facilities
    • Energy providers
    • Transportation systems
    • Financial institutions
  • The strategy outlines plans for assessing the risks associated with these sectors and developing measures to prevent and respond to incidents.

Referral to Law Enforcement

  • The strategy emphasizes the need for effective referral to law enforcement agencies in cases of criminal cyber activity.
  • The government will establish a single point of contact within law enforcement agencies to handle reported incidents and ensure that secure infrastructure provided by CERTKiribati is utilized.

Assessment and Implementation

  • The government has committed to strengthening the protection of critical infrastructure against cyber attacks through assessment, implementation, and monitoring of measures.
  • The strategy outlines plans for:
    • Conducting needs and risk assessments
    • Developing mandatory standards
    • Promoting awareness among operators of critical infrastructure

With this comprehensive strategy, Kiribati is taking a significant step towards enhancing its cybersecurity capabilities and protecting its citizens from online threats.