The risk of cybercrime and cyber-attacks has increased, local IT personnel were told during a three-day cybersecurity training, held in Nuku’alofa this week, aiming to help Tonga has a safe and secure digital environment.

During the training opening on 21 February, Director of CERT Tonga, 'Esau Tupou, told 30 participants at this 'Incident Response Communications Framework, Digital Forensic Analysis and Communications' training that the risk of cybercrime and cyber-attacks had increased exponentially.

"Cybersecurity is still new to many people, especially to our communities, young and old."

He said passing safe and secure transactions over the internet is critical to safeguard sensitive information and protect intellectual property.

“In order to prevent individuals from being a victim of cyber-attack, it is everyone’s responsibility to update, patch, backup their files, use licensed antiviruses and software applications and protect your passwords,” he said.

CERT is Tonga's Computer Emergency Response Team operating under MEIDECC.

Collaboration 

Tupou thanked Lefaoali’i Meremine Auelua-Momoemausu, Programme Director Pacific Partnerships, CERT NZ for their continuous support in assisting CERT Tonga with several cybersecurity incidents and cyber-attacks.

“They are our first and foremost point of contact for assistance and advice on cyber incidents in the region. They also support CERT Tonga with funding the Cybersecurity Workforce Development Program (CWDP), a product of the great relationship formed over the years between CERT Tonga and CERT NZ."

In addition, CWDP helped to build practical skills and understanding of cybersecurity issues among experienced and aspiring experts. The program is currently funding two contracted staff for CERT Tonga.

“It was hoped that this training will help participants exchange ideas and experiences as well as making their organizations and Tonga a 'safe and secure digital environment',” he said.

At the same time, Momoemausu commended their collaboration with CERT Tonga on the delivery of cyber capacity and capability training.

“CERT Tonga and CERT NZ working together to upskill the various parts of our communities, understanding relevant tools and sharing information of lessons learnt and best practice is our best line of defense. We are in this together.”

The CERT New Zealand team also included Tim Myers and Amanda Kissling, with participants from both government and private organisations.