KUALA LUMPUR, 23 NOVEMBER 2009 – Computer security is not just a cyber issue but a social issue, according to government agency CyberSecurity Malaysia.
“Computer security is not just a cyber issue, but a social issue,” said CyberSecurity Malaysia chief executive officer, Lt. Col. Husin bin Jazri (Retired). “In that sense, computer security is no different from personal security, and in recognition of WCSD [World Computer Security Day] on 30 November 2009, we want to strive to collectively make Malaysians more computer-security conscious.”
“I believe one of the ways we can achieve that is by helping each other, reminding each other and telling each other about safer computing habits,” said Lt. Col. Husin. “Similar to taking care of one’s own personal security, as a computer and Internet user, everyone should take proactive steps to inculcate good, positive habits.”
He said WCSD is an annual event observed worldwide, started in 1988 by the non-profit Association for Computer Security Day, to help raise awareness of computer-related security issues. “This year marks the first time WCSD is being observed in a big way in Malaysia.”
CyberSecurity Malaysia is the national cyber security specialist under the purview of the ministry of science, technology and innovation (MOSTI), Malaysia. The services include digital forensics, Computer Emergency Response Team (MyCERT), cyber security management and best practices.
Everyone’s responsibility
“Themed ‘Computer Security is Everyone’s Responsibility’, WCSD 2009 in Malaysia will involve several events and initiatives hosted by CyberSecurity Malaysia in the months of November and December designed to communicate how individual users are responsible in protecting information assets and resources, and practicing safe computing,” said Lt. Col. Husin.
“These include the INFOSECURITY.my seminar, FIRST-TC seminar, launch of the new CyberSecurity Malaysia Malware Centre and commencement of the first ASEAN Youth Cyber Volunteers course,” he said.
“Computer security issues such as the more ‘established’ email spam and scams, identity theft, phishing, indecent content, malware and intrusions; as well as the newer concerns of an increasingly socially connected world such as cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking and online addiction are just some of the many types of online threats that Malaysian netizens are exposed to on a daily basis,” he added. “These often impact victims socially, financially and emotionally.”
Lt. Col. Husin said that in August 2009, CyberSecurity Malaysia launched Cybersafe.my, intended to be a repository and resource for all Malaysians to learn more about computer safety.
“I encourage all Malaysian organisations and individuals to raise their awareness of computer security issues and ways and means to protect themselves and their assets,” he said. “Besides the website, WCSD also has a Facebook fan page and Twitter account (@WCSDMY) which will update and remind its followers on useful tips and quizzes related to computer security.”
“Malaysians are no longer newbies to the world of the internet – it is high time that we take responsibility of our fundamental right to internet access by getting educated on cyber threats and how we can play our part to fight cyber crime,” Lt. Col. Husin said.
