Officials from key government ministries and corporations began meeting with stakeholders from the private sector April 23 during the start of a two-day workshop on cyber security that is expected to lead to the development of a National Cyber Security Strategy for The Bahamas.

Minister of National Security Dr Bernard Nottage, said the government of The Bahamas recognizes information communications technology as one of the most important enablers for the achievement of economic and social development.

He said the government has embarked upon an initiative to articulate a National Cyber Security Strategy, which will include the strengthening of cyber-crime legislation and the establishment of a National Computer Security Cyber Incident Response Team.

The government, Nottage said, further realizes that enhanced cyber security and improved user confidence for trade and commerce on the Internet, play a pivotal role in stimulating economic activity.

“This workshop (for the Development of a National Cyber Security Strategy) is important as we need a structured framework in terms of going forward; a structure within which to create the strategy,” he said.

Representatives from twenty key government ministries, corporations and departments are among the participants of the workshop.

Officials from the Organization of American States (OAS) are working with Bahamian officials to host the workshop.

“In The Bahamas today, most government ministries and agencies have an Internet presence; most large organizations have an Internet and social media presence, and these often are used for advertising and to get feedback on new and existing products. Some also give their customers the option of making online payments which all increases their vulnerability,” Nottage said.

“If issues relating to cyber-crime are not dealt with, we are in danger of reversing all of the gains made by the investments in Information and Communications Technology. The public, government agencies and businesses are all at risk as digital crimes transcend all other categories of crime.”

Nottage said an important outcome of the workshop will be the formation of a National Cyber Crime Working Group that will facilitate the development of the National Cyber Security Strategy in consultation with stakeholder groups.

The Working Group will be responsible for facilitating the development of the National Plan for Action (or Implementation Plan) for the Cyber Security Strategy; facilitate, guide and ensure the implementation of the National Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) which should include the creation of a mechanism for the conduct of cyber risk and vulnerability assessments and generating public education and awareness in the area of cyber security.

“I have every confidence that all members of the Working Group will provide their best service as the issues at hand and that this workshop will provide a good forum to further develop the necessary tools to enhance cyber security and to fight cyber-crime,” Nottage added.