16 October 2015
The Government of Jersey is developing a cyber security strategy based on the findings of a number of internal audits and an independent review conducted by intelligence sector experts.
Cyber security comprises potential threats not just to areas such as data and systems in government and business, but also to the Island’s critical infrastructure. Over the last few years the cyber security landscape has changed dramatically. Internationally, the frequency and complexity of cyber-attacks is increasing and it is therefore ever more important to ensure that information security both online and offline is considered a priority by governments, businesses and individuals.
The reviews that will form the basis of the Government of Jersey’s forthcoming strategy have
- examined the Island’s current cyber resilience
- assessed the main risks that Jersey faces
- identified cyber security priorities
- considered approaches to enhancing the Island’s cyber resilience
These reviews have covered every department within the States of Jersey, as well as the Island’s critical national infrastructure and elements of its private sector. The Council of Ministers is grateful for the full cooperation and participation of a number of local bodies and businesses.
The Government of Jersey is now building on the findings and recommendations of these reviews to develop a new, all-encompassing cyber security strategy that aims to make Jersey a safer place to live and to do business.
It is proposed that the strategy will be built on the requirements to
- secure government systems
- strengthen the critical national infrastructure
- work in partnership with the private sector to encourage and incentivise improved cyber security across the Island’s businesses
- ensure the appropriate legislation is in place in Jersey and engage with the international community to enhance international cooperation
- help ensure people in Jersey are secure online by building cyber skills, knowledge and capability
To deliver this strategy, the Government aims to work in partnership with the critical national infrastructure, the Jersey Financial Services Commission and the private sector to encourage and incentivise improved cyber security across the Island.
The recommendations made in the Comptroller and Auditor General’s report on information security will also be implemented as part of the forthcoming strategy. The Council of Ministers has endorsed the creation of a high-level governance board charged with overseeing the implementation of information security improvements within the Government of Jersey.
The Assistant Chief Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, said “The new cyber security strategy will play a pivotal role in supporting economic growth and ensuring that Jersey continues to be a safe place to live and to do business.”
There will be a public statement in 2016 regarding the Government’s proposed strategy.
gov.je