A clarion call has been made to all levels of government to enhance cybersecurity measures.
A recent publication titled Securing the Nation advocates for Australian agencies to fortify their defenses in response to increasingly sophisticated hacking endeavors.
“We are navigating through a landscape that grows ever more intricate, characterized by emerging technologies and inventive adversaries,” states cybersecurity authority Sarah Sloan.
“The velocity, scale, and sophistication of our opponents are escalating. Consequently, our nation must elevate its resilience in this challenging environment.”
Released by the global tech giant Cisco in partnership with the University of Canberra, the report urges governments to eschew outdated technologies.
“End-of-life systems pose inherent security risks as they no longer receive necessary security updates,” remarks Sloan, who is Cisco’s head of cybersecurity policy. Sarah Sloan (supplied)
In a conversation with GN, Sloan cites findings from the newly released Commonwealth Cybersecurity Posture Report, which highlights that 59 percent of federal agencies consider legacy technology among the most significant cybersecurity hurdles.
“The issues surrounding outdated technology extend beyond security concerns, encompassing operational risks as these systems have a higher likelihood of failure,” explains Sloan.
Furthermore, government entities must prepare for the emergence of agentic AI. “There is a pressing challenge posed by AI threats that necessitates organizations to reassess their utilization of AI to safeguard against novel dangers,” emphasizes Sloan.
Agencies should also prioritize quantum computing in their strategic planning. “We are in an epoch where advancements in quantum computing could potentially compromise encryption within this decade, which could have profound implications for national, economic, and social security,” warns Sloan.
“The report advocates for an elevated discourse around quantum issues, urging high-level conversations to ensure comprehension of associated risks.”
There is definitely more we can be doing.
In conjunction with the report, Cisco has launched a cyber-awareness initiative tailored specifically for parliamentarians and their staff
“The primary goal of this program is to fortify the cyber resilience of parliamentary bodies by offering pragmatic guidance that addresses the unique risks faced by elected officials,” Sloan elaborates.
The guidance emphasizes straightforward, actionable steps that parliamentarians and agency personnel can implement, yet frequently overlook.
“These best practices hold real-world significance and align closely with governmental recommendations,” adds Sloan.
Recommendations include adopting robust passwords, exercising discretion when utilizing public Wi-Fi, and being vigilant about the information shared online.
Sloan advises GN that, despite the presence of cybersecurity frameworks within Australia, complacency is not an option. “Our nation undeniably has the capacity to enhance its security and resilience further.”
Source link: Governmentnews.com.au.
