​NZ SMBs on high alert as new Kiwi security task force builds cyber resilience

“We’re excited to see the New Zealand Internet Task Force create the beginnings of a national incident response capability."

The New Zealand Internet Task Force (NZITF) has launched a public funding campaign to build a proof of concept Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) to serve New Zealand’s small and medium-sized businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

NZITF chairman Barry Brailey says the task force wants to demonstrate the value of a CSIRT by making a “positive, operational contribution” to internet security.

“To prove the concept of a CSIRT that helps the private sector and charities, we want to partner with like-minded companies to fund, guide and shape the future of national incident response capabilities here in New Zealand,” Brailey says.

Brailey says the NZITF is seeking funding partners while working with government agencies to ensure that the aggregate data and typologies that CSIRT deals with can subsequently be fed into the ongoing work to build a national Computer Emergency Response Team.

“We are very grateful for, and encouraged by, the early support from ASB, our first platinum partner, and Trade Me who has signed up to be our first silver partner,” Brailey adds.

According to ASB’s executive general manager technology and innovation Russell Jones, the move is a “significant step forward” in the development of New Zealand’s cyber resilience.

“The proof of concept will be a valuable learning and information-gathering opportunity to help establish a permanent, national CSIRT capability in New Zealand,” he adds.

Following the move, InternetNZ’s Chief Executive Jordan Carter believes this is a chance to deliver “much needed improvement” and “provide greater confidence” to New Zealand internet users.

“A CSIRT would mean Kiwi organisations and not-for-profits will have help from real independent experts if they are hacked by criminals or are dealing with some kind of cyber threat,” he adds.

Carter says InternetNZ has long been calling for a national CSIRT to help protect New Zealand’s Internet community.

“We’re excited to see the New Zealand Internet Task Force create the beginnings of a national incident response capability,” he adds.

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Tags internetnzcyberNew Zealand Internet Task Force

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