Cybersecurity threats pose significant risks to Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) digital infrastructure, critical services, businesses, and citizens. With the rapid digitization of various sectors and the increasing reliance on digital technologies, the nation faces escalating cyber threats that could undermine national security, economic prosperity, and public trust. Recent cyber incidents,
such as the IFMS hack of the finance department and the disruptions on “Black Wednesday,” underscore the urgency of bolstering PNG’s cyber defenses. These incidents highlight vulnerabilities in government systems, critical infrastructure, and private enterprises, necessitating a comprehensive and proactive approach to cybersecurity.
The National Cyber Security Strategy (NCSS) aims to fortify PNG’s cybersecurity posture, ensuring secure cyberspace that fosters innovation and prosperity while safeguarding national sovereignty. The policy’s mission is to protect government systems, critical infrastructure, businesses, and citizens from cyber threats through effective governance, risk management, and incident response. By promoting a culture of cybersecurity and fostering international partnerships, PNG aims to mitigate risks and enhance its cybersecurity resilience.
The NCSS outlines key objectives, including: