Over 23.2bln ETB salvaged by foiling cyberattack in 2015 E.C: INSA
Addis Ababa, October 23, 2023 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Information Network Security Administration (INSA) disclosed that it has rescued more than 23.2 billion birr by thwarting attempted cybercrimes in the 2022/23 fiscal year.
The 4th National Cyber Security Month is being held in Addis Ababa Gion Hotel under the theme “Indomitable Cyber Capacity for National Sovereignty”.
The opening session was attended by Defense Minister Abraham Belay Chemro and other high-level government officials.
In his speech at the event, The Defense Minister noted that Cyber technology has been the world’s key competitive advantage for years. “The rapid change recorded in the dynamic cyber space, complemented by remarkable innovations, in a short period of time is the reason why countries are at the forefront of civilization in the economic, social, and political spheres,” Abraham said.
Realizing cyberspace is the leading network for the success of development, peace and prosperity, Ethiopia has integrated it into its 10-year lead development plan and the three-year homegrown economic system and has become one of the main strategic focus areas, the Minister indicated.
Abraham stated that the cyber capacity is developing significantly globally and countries are also taking advantage of the potential and the good opportunities presented by cyberspace.
While the universal benefits of the spread and development of cyber technology are preserved, it is also clear that cybercrimes are the primary concern of countries. Besides the main tasks of the institutions that manage the key infrastructures in Ethiopia, they should make cyber security work as their primary priority, in that regard, the Defense Minister emphasized.
“We should not forget for a moment that ensuring the safety of our country’s cyberspace cannot be effective without the participation of the community, so it requires the concerted efforts and collaboration of all stakeholders,” he reckoned.
Accordingly, the primary role of developing the consciousness of the society on cyber security is the responsibility of all relevant stakeholders. The media, academic institutions, private and government institutions engaged in the field of cyber technology need to work closely and in coordination to this end, Abraham underlined.
For his part, Director General of INSA, Solomon Soka, noted that Cyberattacks targeting key infrastructures are increasing from time to time, indicating that diligent efforts are being made to protect the cyberspace in the country.
In that regard, more than 23.2 billion Birr was rescued from attempted cyberattacks in the 2022/23 Ethiopian fiscal year.
It was also indicated that some 6,959 cyberattack attempts were reported in the previous Ethiopian fiscal year.
Attempts of cyberattack are increasing mainly on financial, security, intelligence, media and communications institutions as well as key government institutions and infrastructures, it was mentioned.