Fiji is responding to an alarming rise in cyber-attacks targeting its public infrastructure by enhancing its cybersecurity measures. According to Berenado Daveta, the Permanent Secretary for Policing, recent breaches in the region, including attacks on court systems and payment platforms, have unveiled significant vulnerabilities. In light of these threats, Fiji has entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), starting this September, to bolster its cyber defense capabilities.
Daveta expressed concern over the increasing incidents of cyber-attacks within Fiji and the Pacific region, particularly those aimed at national infrastructures. He emphasized the critical need for international collaboration to safeguard the safety and security of the people. Satoshi Wakasugi, the JICA Fiji Resident Representative, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that cybersecurity needs in the Pacific are crucial and underscoring the importance of joint efforts to share knowledge and develop sustainable solutions.
Fiji’s proactive stance is in line with its ongoing efforts to improve its cybersecurity framework, reinforced by earlier initiatives including the ratification of the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime and the establishment of its National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) with the assistance of Australia. These historical vulnerabilities and threats have prompted Fiji to create a structured framework for addressing cyber risks nationally.
The ongoing partnerships and strategic initiatives reflect a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s cybersecurity landscape. By strengthening collaboration both locally and internationally, the nation not only aims to protect its digital infrastructure but also strives to be a model for enhanced cyber resilience in the Pacific region, paving the way for a safer digital environment for all. The commitment to bolstering cybersecurity practices illustrates a forward-thinking approach, aiming to inspire neighboring countries to engage in cooperative efforts against common digital threats.
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