National Cyber Security Strategy of Jamaica

August 2015

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The National Cyber Security Strategy of Jamaica, developed in 2015, is a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing the country’s cyber resilience and ensuring a secure digital environment. Below is an overview of the strategy’s key elements:

Executive Summary

The strategy acknowledges the importance of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) for national development and addresses the inherent risks posed by cybercrimes. It focuses on four main areas:

  1. Technical Measures
  2. Human Resource and Capacity Building
  3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
  4. Public Education and Awareness

Introduction

Since the liberalization of Jamaica’s telecommunications sector in 1999, significant advancements in ICT have been made. However, increased connectivity has also led to increased cyber threats. The strategy aims to leverage ICT for economic and social development while addressing these risks.

Guiding Principles

The strategy is built on several guiding principles:

  1. Leadership: Government commitment to policy development and adopting best practices.
  2. Shared Responsibilities: Encouraging all users to secure their own IT systems.
  3. Protection of Fundamental Rights and Freedom: Ensuring citizens’ rights are not impaired.
  4. Risk Management: Applying a risk-based approach to cyber security.
  5. Innovation and Business Development: Creating a safe environment conducive to innovation.
  6. Sustainable Resources: Ensuring availability of skilled human capital.

Strategy Objectives

  1. Technical Measures
    • Ensuring critical infrastructure resilience against cyber threats.
    • Establishing a Cyber Incident Response Team (CIRT) for timely response to cyber incidents.
    • Applying a risk-based approach for establishing IT security standards.
    • Leveraging regional and international partnerships for better threat management.
  2. Human Resource and Capacity Building
    • Developing a pool of skilled professionals in information security.
    • Promoting research and development in cyber security.
    • Supporting continuous training and education in the field of information security.
  3. Legal and Regulatory Framework
    • Creating a robust governance framework to support the cyber security landscape.
    • Ensuring the legislative framework is updated and aligns with international best practices.
    • Strengthening law enforcement capabilities to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes.
  4. Public Education and Awareness
    • Increasing public awareness about cyber risks and the necessary actions to mitigate them.
    • Implementing measures to protect vulnerable groups in cyberspace.
    • Promoting a culture of cyber security through education and training programs.

Implementation and Review

The Ministry with responsibility for ICT will lead the implementation of the strategy. An implementation plan detailing specific tasks and responsibilities will be developed within three months of the strategy’s adoption. The strategy will be reviewed and updated every three years or as necessary.