Government Agencies in Singapore Are Cutting Internet Access for Cyber-Security Concerns
The statement was from David Koh, CEO of Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, in his address to the media that took place on June 10. He addressed the statement as a response to citizen concerns as to disallowing internet surfing on office computers to public servants.
Employees will have internet access on their phones that they can use for their personal use like surfing the web. Also, they can still share any non-sensitive emails on their personal account if there is a need. There will be an issuance of dedicated work terminals for those who need them for work-related operations.
A wave of rage passed among the citizens after the news broke out. In total, there will be 100,000 computers would not have access to a direct connection due to cutting Internet access. Most of these units are under public employee use. The government expected such a reaction. It indicated that it wants to further tighten the security of work-related emails and other private documents.
The government faced some serious criticism from the public after this announcement. The social media was flooded with memes regarding this decision taken by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore. There was one meme, where a woman was searching for papers in cabinets, just like they use to do in the past. This will be the way civil servants would work in the future.
Cyber Security Agency of Singapore has taken out time to defend its decision. The organization explained why this internet lockdown was so essential for the benefit of national security. David Koh defined this decision of cutting internet access as a crucial step for safeguarding the sensitive data of citizens.
The Importance of Cyber Security
To further shed light on the importance of cybersecurity among the audience. In addition, the CEO of Cyber Security Agency of Singapore stated that cybersecurity serves as a key enabler for any nation. He added that a nation cannot be considered smart, trusted and resilient if its systems are vulnerable and unsecured. Singapore Government Agencies have pushed the action of cutting internet access and tightening the cybersecurity due to the constant attacks of malicious parties. These include state actors, cybercriminals and gangs on the cybersecurity of the country.
The government declared that limiting web surfing for the employees would reduce the overall rate of cybercrime. It can also make it harder for hackers to gain access to the internal network of the government. It serves as part of their duty and responsibilities, as a public servant to protect the data of the citizens.
Why SMEs Should Have Their Server Protected with Anti Virus, Firewall, and Back-up Solutions?
There is so much that can go wrong if you click on a wrong link, while you are online. Some of these risks are more serious than others, particularly when it comes to SMEs.
Some of the dangers that SMEs might face if their employees click on the wrong link are as follows:
- First and foremost, the incorrect link may cause a virus to spread throughout the system.
- The computer of your employees can then be used by hackers to attack other computers in the network
- Hackers may also break into your system and steal your crucial data or alter your files
- The personal information of your employees, as well as your customers, will be at risk of being stolen
- The Malware that has entered your computer by clicking on the wrong link can steal your passwords, account numbers, pin codes and a lot more. This can lead to theft and monetary loss.
Achieving Web Protection
If you are an operating SME, you should be aware of the different firewalls, anti-malware programs and antivirus software available in the market. These programs, if used in a certain combination, can help SMEs to achieve the highest level of protection. SMEs can also use two or more anti-malware programs along with an anti-virus program. These will protect their computers from the attack of viruses and malware that might enter their computer when they click on the wrong link. They are also encouraged to back-up important data as often as possible.
However, the major reason why SMEs should strongly consider the use of these IT services such as different firewalls, anti-malware programs and anti-virus programs from an IT company is because for data protection concerns and provide you with protection against the threats mentioned above and enable you to grow your business without any sudden setbacks.
