In an era where cyber threats are on the rise, Safaricom PLC has taken a proactive stance, calling on businesses, government entities, and individuals to invest in cutting-edge technologies that safeguard sensitive information and critical systems.
This clarion call comes in the midst of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, as the leading telecommunications company seeks to fortify Kenya’s defenses against cyber threats.
Safaricom took the lead by hosting an expansive industry-wide cyber security summit on Tuesday, under the theme “Becoming a Cyber Resilient Organisation.”
The summit brought together nearly 400 cybersecurity industry leaders and professionals who delved deep into the latest trends in cybersecurity and the evolving landscape of enterprise networks.
Alarming statistics from the Communications Authority highlight the gravity of the situation. Between July and September 2023, Kenya encountered over 123 million cyber threat events, underscoring the escalating sophistication and professionalism of cybercriminals.
These actors persistently craft, construct, and adapt solutions that outsmart even the most advanced cybersecurity measures.
Nicholas Mulila, the Chief Corporate Security Officer at Safaricom PLC, commented on the evolving threat landscape, stating, “Cybercrime is becoming increasingly professionalized, leading to a proliferation of numerous subtle and sophisticated threats. This has created a landscape in which companies face more significant cyber threats than ever before. As cyber threat actors refine their techniques, attacks will become even more common, and companies will face novel and more dangerous cyber threats.”
Safaricom, a key player in the Kenyan telecommunications landscape, offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that not only connect and enable businesses but also protect them in an ever-evolving digital realm.
These solutions include expert security advisory services, network security, online/data/web security, cyber security operations, and a robust physical security framework, encompassing a state-of-the-art video surveillance system.
Safaricom boasts an enhanced cloud solution that seamlessly integrates with cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, providing reliable connectivity and payment services, even in the face of cyber attacks. Cynthia Kropac, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at Safaricom PLC, emphasized their commitment, saying, “We continue to provide a variety of solutions that connect, protect, enable, and transform business, ensuring business continuity even in the face of cyber attacks. We also have an enhanced cloud solution that is augmented with cyber security, and reliable connectivity and payment services.”
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Kenyan government has also taken decisive steps to address the evolving challenges of cyberspace.
They have introduced a National Cybersecurity Strategy (2022-2027), outlining a comprehensive implementation framework and timeline to bolster the nation’s cyber defenses.
Patrick Kilemi, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Cooperatives, highlighted the importance of this strategy, saying, “Cybercrimes are increasing due to the advances in technology. Cybersecurity is key to everything we do. We have developed an integrated cooperative management system to transform our systems from analogue to digital to improve our efficiency in service delivery, and we are committed to safeguard this platform from cyber threats.”
The high-profile forum also saw the presence of other dignitaries, including Jackson Makewa, Director of Cybersecurity at the Department for Information Communications, and Colonel James Kimuyu, Director General of National Computer and Cybercrimes.
These key stakeholders underscored the collective responsibility and collaboration required to tackle the growing menace of cyber threats, emphasizing the need for a united front in safeguarding Kenya’s digital landscape.
As the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve and become increasingly complex, Safaricom’s call for cyber resilience serves as a timely reminder for businesses, government institutions, and individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in the face of this persistent and expanding threat.
With the telecommunications giant leading the charge, Kenya stands better prepared to defend its digital assets and protect sensitive information in this digital age.
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