Financial Crime World

Senegal’s Cybersecurity Landscape: A Growing Framework

Institutions and Structures

In Senegal, several institutions play crucial roles in regulating and fighting cybercrime:

  • Telecommunications and Posts Regulatory Authority (ARTP): Regulates telecommunications and postal sectors.
  • Personal Data Protection Commission (CDP): Protects personal data collected and processed by public and private organizations.
  • Special Cybercrime Brigade (BSLC) within the National Police: Investigates cybercrimes.
  • Digital Platform for the Fight against Cybercrime (PNLC) of the Senegalese National Gendarmerie: Fights cybercrime.

National CERT: A Basis for Future Development

While there is currently no national CERT, a CSIRT office was created within ADIE in November 2018. This could serve as a foundation for establishing a national CERT in the future.

Cybersecurity Culture: Promoting Awareness and Training

The Senegalese government has initiated several programs to promote cybersecurity awareness and culture:

  • National School of Cybersecurity with a Regional vocation (ENCVR): Provides training and capacity building in cybersecurity.
  • Government initiatives: Foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness among citizens.

International Cooperation: Joining Forces

Senegal participates in international cooperation on cybersecurity, including through the African Union’s Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection.

Legislation: Addressing Cybercrime

Senegal has laws and regulations in place to combat cybercrime:

  • Law No. 2008-11 on Cybercriminality: Addresses various aspects of cybercrime.
  • Court decisions and judgments: Related to cybercrime cases in Senegal demonstrate the country’s commitment to enforcing its cybersecurity laws.

Conclusion

Senegal has made significant strides in establishing a robust cybersecurity framework, but there is still room for improvement. Addressing the lack of regulation requiring incidents to be reported by OIVs and setting up a national CERT would further enhance the country’s cybersecurity landscape.