A new centre to protect Guernsey’s economy, public services and residents from cyber attacks will formally launch next month.
The centre is backed by the Committee for Home Affairs and will be opened by one of Britain’s best-known cyber-crime journalists.
The Guernsey Cyber Security Centre (GCSC) will offer cyber security guidance to individuals, businesses and organisations; monitor and alert on vulnerabilities in Guernsey’s public networks; support safe disclosure and resolution; provide advice and coordination during cyber incidents; and run education, training and awareness activity. It will operate from a new Cyber Operations Centre in St Peter Port under the oversight of the Committee for Home Affairs, and will serve the whole Bailiwick — government, public bodies, Critical National Infrastructure providers, the private and third sectors, and, where appropriate, individuals.
Matt Palmer (pictured), Director of the Jersey & Guernsey Cyber Security Centres, said: “GCSC is being established at the request of the States with the remit of preparing, protecting and defending the Bailiwick of Guernsey from cyber threats. With a small team based here in St Peter Port, our purpose is to help strengthen resilience and protect islanders against increasing cyber threats to essential services, the wider economy, and the community. As a ‘critical friend’ rather than a regulator or law enforcement function, we are already supporting organisations across the Bailiwick with cyber incidents and advice.”
Deputy Marc Leadbeater, President of the Committee for Home Affairs, said: “I’m pleased to see the launch of the Guernsey Cyber Security Centre, which marks an important step forward in protecting the Bailiwick. No-one is immune from cyber attacks, which affect businesses, public services and households alike. As geopolitical risks rise and new technologies such as artificial intelligence present both risks and opportunities to Guernsey, it is right that we have a dedicated capability working to keep the community safe from cyber threats.
“GCSC will serve every part of our community, from government and critical infrastructure providers through to local businesses, charities and individual islanders, and I would encourage all those it is set up to support to engage with it and make use of the expertise it brings. I’m grateful to everyone whose work has made this possible, and I look forward to seeing the difference GCSC will make to Guernsey’s economy and to the wellbeing of islanders in the years ahead.”
Further information about the launch can be found here.
