Fiji’s Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening its cybersecurity measures to combat the growing threat of cybercrime, which poses significant risks to the national economy. Speaking at the Regional Cybercrime and Electronic Evidence Workshop held at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort, Turaga highlighted the recent enactment of the Cybercrime Act 2021 and Fiji’s membership in the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, positioning the island nation alongside established international standards for digital security.
During his address, Turaga emphasized the necessity of updating laws, equipping law enforcement personnel with appropriate training, and enhancing both national and regional capabilities to effectively counter cyber threats. He urged collaboration among Pacific nations to safeguard the region’s digital infrastructure and called upon participants to utilize the workshop as a platform for strategizing and forging stronger partnerships.
“We must ensure that no foreign nation or hacker can undermine our security or economic stability,” Turaga stated, reinforcing the message of unity and resilience in facing these challenges. He acknowledged that Fiji is not exempt from global cyber threats, referencing various forms of attacks such as phishing, ransomware, and the recent M-Paisa financial fraud incident.
The workshop, organized by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions with support from the European Union for the Pacific, the European Commission, and the Council of Europe, served as a valuable forum for law enforcement officials and legal professionals to enhance their skills in preventing cybercrime and managing electronic evidence. This initiative exemplifies Fiji’s ongoing dedication to boosting the capabilities of Pacific nations in the battle against cyber threats.
In summary, Fiji is proactively tackling the dangers posed by cybercrime through legislative improvements, skill-building workshops, and international cooperation. This focused approach not only strengthens national security but also fosters regional solidarity, creating a more secure digital environment for all Pacific nations.
This positive outlook reinforces the importance of unity and resilience in the face of evolving cyber challenges and demonstrates Fiji’s proactive stance in ensuring a safer digital future.
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