THE WORLD HAS NEVER been smaller, with more of us connected at even higher internet speeds than ever before. The Internet of Things (IoT) has changed the way we interface with each other, revolutionised business processes, and altered the way in which countries and critical infrastructure are operated.
There is no doubt that this hyper connectivity is a powerful development tool and opportunity for growth by governments, business, and individuals alike – a tool that must remain open and accessible despite the inherent risks.
The challenge lies in our ability to balance and manage these risks for the foreseeable future. The openness and ease of access of a hyper connectivity has lowered the barriers to entry for criminal entrepreneurs as they can participate in illicit activities from almost anywhere.
This makes it difficult for law enforcement to link the crime to the perpetrator and jurisdiction. Consequently, governments, international organisations, the private sector, and civil society must all work together in reinforcing collaboration and recognising that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.
Cybercrime affects society as a whole; not only threatens individuals’ privacy, but it may also potentially compromise a country’s critical infrastructure and its ability to provide essential services to its citizens.
The globalised nature of economies also means that it is a threat at an international level. This highlights the need for action on four different levels: international, national, private sector and individual. Individuals too, hold some responsibility and must be aware of their own vulnerabilities and involvement in cyberhygiene.
Latin America and the Caribbean currently have one of the fastest growing internet populations in the world, giving rise to a number of significant cyber security challenges.
In response to the increasing threats, the Organisation of American States (OAS), through the Inter-American Committee Against Terrorism, has developed a regional cybersecurity programme focusing on strengthening cybersecurity and improving critical information infrastructure protection throughout the Americas.
Recognising the importance of collaboration, the OAS cybersecurity programme revolves around the implementation of the following seven-point plan.
Engaging civil society and the private sector: more than 80 per cent of the infrastructure that drives the internet and administers essential services is owned and operated by the private sector.
Raising awareness: with the development of IoT, people are connected to the internet in many different ways. This new trend highlights the importance of designing policies to raise awareness among internet end users about basic cybersecurity measures.
Developing national strategies: a national cybersecurity strategy allows countries to define a comprehensive vision on cybersecurity and set clear responsibilities, coordinating actions between governments and relevant stakeholders.
Providing training: remaining current is fundamental in the ever evolving environment of cybersecurity. The delivery of technical training to officials has proven to be a highly successful means of enhancing cybersecurity at the national and regional levels.
Rehearsing crisis management: in parallel with technical training and the development of response teams, the OAS also conducts crisis management.
Carrying out technical assistance missions: the OAS responds to countries’ needs by developing and carrying out technical assistance missions designed to address their concerns.
Sharing information: the OAS is working on the development of a network of cybersecurity related authorities, which aim to facilitate real time communication and information sharing.
Adam Blackwell is secretary for multidimensional security, Organisation of American States.
