22 March 2010 - In a continuous effort to enhance Singapore's infocomm security preparedness, new programmes under the Infocomm Security Masterplan 2 are introduced through close collaboration with the public, private and people sectors. The programmes will boost the security of the national internet infrastructure and government infocomm infrastructure and services against cyber threats.
Singapore, 22 March 2010 | For Immediate Release
In a continuous effort to enhance Singapore's infocomm security preparedness, new programmes under the Infocomm Security Masterplan 2 (MP2) are introduced through close collaboration with the public, private and people sectors. The programmes will boost the security of the national internet infrastructure and government infocomm infrastructure and services against cyber threats. It also aims to enhance competencies among the public, private and people sectors.
This was announced today by Mr Lui Tuck Yew, Acting Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts at the annual Information Security Seminar organised by the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) and the Association of Information Security Professionals (AISP)1.
New Infocomm Security Programmes
The three new programmes aim to address and strengthen different areas of infocomm security under the MP2 launched in 2008 through a multi-agency effort led by IDA under the guidance of the National Infocomm Security Committee. Developed with the industry, the new programmes will achieve the following:
1. Enable a Secure and Resilient Internet Infrastructure
This programme aims to bolster the security of the nation's internet infrastructure against cyber threats through the issuance of early warnings and undertaking of appropriate pre-emptive actions.
- Industry Code of Practice
A Code of Practice on infocomm security that is aligned with international standards and best practices will be issued by third quarter of the year. The Code of Practice to be incorporated into the telecommunications regulatory framework set specific security controls and outcomes to ensure that baseline security is put in place to deal with current and emerging cyber threats. Periodic audits will be conducted by IDA to ensure that ISPs observe the Code of Practice.
- Information Sharing among ISPs
To further raise level of infocomm security readiness and response, sharing of infocomm security information among ISPs will be established through the coordination of IDA. This will allow ISPs and IDA to make more informed decisions so that early warning to emerging cyber threats can be developed and appropriate pre-emptive measures can be taken.
2. Broaden Public Sector Security Capabilities
To protect the public sector infocomm infrastructure, various measures have been put in place over the years. With the availability of richer and more extensive information on the prevailing security situation, key capabilities will be introduced to further enhance the collation and analysis of such information. This will be realised through leveraging on business analytics tools to present relevant information to decision-makers in a timely manner to facilitate early identification of cyber threats and measures to be taken. In addition, public sector capabilities to address threat from massive cyber attacks such as Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS)2 will be broaden through combination of policies, technical controls and competency building.
3. Enhance Infocomm Security Awareness and Adoption
To develop savvy users of infocomm security in Singapore, programmes have been implemented in partnership across the public, people and private sectors through the Cyber Security Awareness Alliance. The introduction of the Alliance's tagline, "GO SAFE ONLINE" serves to provide a consistent call-to-action where users are reminded to take personal responsibility in protecting themselves against cyber threats. The Alliance is also working with the National Crime Prevention Council to develop the 'Virtual Cyber Security Park' portal that will enable students to learn various facets of cyber wellness, safety and security via interactive mode such as educational online games. In reaching out to the community-at-large, various approaches will be adopted by the Alliance such as leveraging social networking websites to create interest groups for sharing cyber security tips and best practices. The Alliance will continue to tap on platforms of partners such as seminars, trade associations networking sessions and SiTF outreach events to reach out to businesses including the Small and Medium enterprises.
Please see attachments for the following:
- Annex A: Factsheet on Infocomm Security Masterplan 2 (110.80KB)
- Annex B: Factsheet on Cyber Security Awareness Alliance (41.13KB)
ISSUED BY CORPORATE & MARKETING COMMUNICATION DIVISION
INFOCOMM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE
Notes to Editors:
1 AISP has been formed as a joint initiative between IDA and the Singapore Computer Society. It aims to transform infocomm security into a distinguished profession and elevate the standing, professionalism and trust accorded to infocomm security professionals here. Through the AISP, which is a first in Asia, Singapore aspires to build a critical pool of competent infocomm security professionals who subscribe to the highest standard.
2 A DDoS attack occurs when multiple compromised systems (primed by malware or trojans) flood the bandwidth or resources of a targeted system, overwhelming the business' network so that it can no longer provide the intended online service or obstructing legitimate communications between the business and its customers.
Related Links
- Securing Our Cyberspace, A Shared Responsibility - Opening Address By Mr Lui Tuck Yew, Acting Minister For Information, Communications And the Arts At The Information Security Seminar On 22 March 2010, 9.05am, At The Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
- Infocomm Security in the Government - Speech By Mr Peter Ho, Head Of Civil Service, And Chairman, National Infocomm Security Committee, At The Information Security Seminar On 22 March 2010, 9.20am, At The Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
About Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) is committed to growing Singapore into a dynamic global infocomm hub. IDA uses an integrated approach to developing info-communications in Singapore. This involves nurturing a competitive telecoms market as well as a conducive business environment with programmes and schemes for both local and international companies. For more news and information, visit www.ida.gov.sg.
About National Infocomm Security Committee
The National Infocomm Security Committee is set up to formulate policies and strategic direction for cyber security at the national level. It is chaired by Mr Peter Ho, Head of Civil Service. It comprises representatives from Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Information, Communication and the Arts, Ministry of Finance, IDA, DSO National Labs, Defence Science and Technology Agency, and National Security Coordination Secretariat. IDA also acts as the Committee's Secretariat.
For Media Clarification, Please Contact:
Tan Poh Kiat (Ms)
Manager, Corporate & Marketing Communication
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
DID: +65 6211 0127
Fax: +65 6211 2227
Email: tan_poh_kiat@imda.gov.sg
Jennifer Toh (Ms)
Assistant Director, Corporate & Marketing Communication
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
DID: +65 6211 0508
Fax: +65 6211 2227
Email: jennifer_toh@imda.gov.sg
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