The government has released its first annual report on the implementation of its Cyber Security Strategy and its plans to address cyber crime, calling for government and the private sector to work together to drive improved cyber security across the economy.
The report follows release of the Cyber Security Strategy, Action Plan, and national plan to address cyber crime in December 2015. It sets out progress under the four goals of: achieving cyber resilience; building cyber capability; addressing cyber crime; and enhancing international cooperation.
The New Zealand Technology Industry Assocation (NZTech) responded to the report by saying it was already working closely with the government on ensuring the cyber strategy is implemented as fast as possible.
CEO Graeme Muller said: “NZTech is collaborating with the national cyber policy office on issues such as the security of the internet of things as it develops in New Zealand and via NZTech's annual security summit which brings together the leaders in cyber security across the country each year.”
Communications minister Simon Bridges said the Government was making good progress to improve its cyber security, “The government is leading an ambitious programme of action to fulfil the vision of a secure, resilient and prosperous online New Zealand,” he said, adding “But with a rapidly evolving cyber threat, there is no room for complacency. … The government and the private sector must work together to drive improved cyber security across the economy.”
The Government has listed its areas of focus for 2017 as: supporting the development of New Zealand’s cyber security industry; working on the cyber crime plan; helping small businesses to protect themselves online; and launching a national CERT.
“CERT NZ will open its doors next month as the central place for New Zealanders, businesses and government agencies to report cyber incidents,” Bridges said. “It will provide trusted and authoritative advice on preventing cyber threats and responding to incidents and will work with CERTs in other countries on incidents that have cross-border implications.”
Bridges said the cyber security skills taskforce, announced last November had already been set up to focus on closing the cyber skills gap. “The Taskforce is comprised of cyber security experts, academics and industry representatives who are working extensively with industry to progress different pathways for people to enter cyber security professions,” he said. “In addition, work is underway on the design of a cyber credentials scheme to assist small businesses to improve their cyber security.”