Need for greater cyber security

Need for greater cyber security
By Lynda Hong | Posted: 10 November 2011 2252 hrs

SINGAPORE: US-based Palo Alto Networks recently uncovered 700 unique malicious software samples, highlighting the need for greater cyber security.

More than half of the samples cannot be dealt with by anti-virus programmes.

Meanwhile, in Asia Pacific, e-Cop -- an information security firm -- uncovered three billion security events on business and government networks.

A security event suggests a breach of security of an information system or network.

The corporate landscape is dotted with un-prosecuted high profile hacking offences, such as the attack on Sony's playstation network.

Experts said the problem of policing cybercrime begins with its definition.

Mark McLaughlin, president & CEO, Palo Alto Networks, said: "The problem is the lack of similar application of laws, country by country.

"So a lot of countries have agreed what is illegal from a cyber perspective.

"Other countries haven't done that. And then you just have the situation where even if you agree to it, if you can't prosecute under those laws, then it is a safe haven for criminals."

Infocomm security experts who spoke to Channel NewsAsia said many business are afraid of the unknown risk in the cyberworld, and that is hindering them from adopting emerging technologies like cloud computing.

In Singapore, the new National Cyber Security centre will focus on providing cyber security situational awareness and will be rolled out in phases in the next two to three years.

It is an answer to a growing call to secure Singapore's cyberspace.

Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) Chair for Law and Home Affairs Hri Kumar said: "What would typically happen if your system is penetrated is, you go to the police.

"And the police have got some capabilities. But I think they are starting to beef up that capability.

"We need to look at an agency to try and give advice and support for businesses. Not everyone has the finance or the capability for rigorous or robust system in-house. So they need someone to turn to."

While a legal framework is yet to be internationalised, experts said businesses should do more.

Infocomm experts are also looking to work with more education centres like Singapore Polytechnic to groom the industry.

- CNA/wk

- wong chee tat :)