Nugroho Sulistyo Budi Takes Charge of Indonesia‘s Cybersecurity Landscape
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New Head of BSSN Aims too Fortify National Cyber Defense
Nugroho Sulistyo Budi has officially assumed the role of Head of the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), succeeding hinsa Siburian, who has retired. His appointment was confirmed by President Prabowo Subianto during a ceremony at the State Palace on January 19.
Considering the escalating complexity of cyber threats, nugroho has outlined two critical directives from President Subianto: to safeguard cyberspace against data breaches and to ensure the confidentiality of sensitive details.
Emphasizing Collective Responsibility in cybersecurity
Addressing the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures, Nugroho stressed the importance of a collective responsibility approach. “When we talk about cybersecurity and data protection, it is not about systems and hardware, but awareness, care and security behaviour,” he stated. he warned that neglecting security protocols could lead to increased vulnerability to phishing and hacking attacks.
Securing Data for National Advancement
Another pivotal task for BSSN is to ensure the security of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN), which serves as a foundation for the government’s social assistance and economic recovery initiatives. Nugroho remarked, “Our task is to oversee the security, confidentiality and integrity of the data so that it can be truly used for development purposes.”
To combat the rising tide of cyber threats,BSSN will actively collaborate with various ministries and agencies. This includes addressing the frequent hacking incidents targeting government websites and working alongside the Ministry of Communications and Digital to tackle issues such as online gambling.
Strengthening Local Cybersecurity Efforts
In a bid to enhance local cybersecurity capabilities,BSSN has established Cyber Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) in 264 cities and regencies throughout Indonesia. This initiative aims to empower local governments to effectively detect, prevent, and respond to cyber incidents.
Nugroho’s Background and Expertise
Nugroho Sulistyo Budi brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having served as a three-star general with a background in intelligence. His previous roles include Director of Mass Communications at Indonesia’s National Intelligence Agency (BIN), Chief Inspector of BIN, and Expert Staff to the Minister of Defence for Political Affairs.
Indonesia’s Cybersecurity Future: A Conversation with Cyber Expert Dr.Amelia Hartono
Time.news sits down with Dr. Amelia Hartono to discuss Nugroho Sulistyo Budi’s appointment as Head of BSSN and the future of cybersecurity in Indonesia.
The cybersecurity landscape in Indonesia is evolving rapidly. With Nugroho Sulistyo Budi recently appointed as the Head of the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), Indonesia is poised to strengthen its national cyber defense strategies.To delve deeper into the implications of this appointment and the challenges ahead, Time.news spoke with Dr. Amelia Hartono,a leading cybersecurity expert with extensive experience in threat intelligence and national security.
time.news: Dr. Hartono, thank you for joining us. Nugroho sulistyo Budi has taken over as Head of BSSN. What’s your initial reaction to this appointment?
Dr. Hartono: it’s a significant move. Mr. Nugroho brings a wealth of experience from his background in intelligence, having served in key roles at BIN. His understanding of national security, coupled with the directives he’s received from President Subianto to safeguard cyberspace against data breaches and ensure confidentiality, suggests a more proactive and strategic approach to Indonesia’s cybersecurity.
Time.news: The article emphasizes the importance of “collective responsibility” in cybersecurity. Can you elaborate on why this is crucial?
Dr. Hartono: Absolutely. Cybersecurity isn’t solely the responsibility of BSSN or IT professionals. It’s a shared responsibility that extends to every citizen and association. As Mr. Nugroho rightly points out,it’s about awareness,care,and secure behavior [[1]]. Neglecting basic security protocols, like using strong passwords or being vigilant against phishing attempts, drastically increases vulnerability. We all need to be cybersecurity conscious.
Time.news: The security of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) is also highlighted. Why is this data so crucial to protect?
Dr. Hartono: The DTSEN is the foundation for indonesia’s social assistance and economic recovery initiatives. It contains sensitive personal and socio-economic data of millions of citizens.If this data is compromised,the consequences would be devastating. It coudl lead to identity theft, fraud, and undermine public trust in government programs. Ensuring its security, confidentiality, and integrity is paramount for national development.
Time.news: BSSN is collaborating with various ministries and agencies to combat cyber threats, including online gambling and hacking of government websites. What are some of the challenges in addressing these specific issues?
Dr. Hartono: there are complex challenges. Online gambling, for instance, often operates across borders, making it tough to track and shut down. Hacking of government websites can be attributed to various actors, from cybercriminals seeking financial gain to state-sponsored groups engaging in espionage. Addressing these threats requires strong inter-agency collaboration, advanced threat intelligence, and robust cybersecurity defenses.It also needs international cooperation to address the borderless nature of cybercrime,.
Time.news: The establishment of Cyber Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) in numerous cities and regencies is a significant initiative. How will this strengthen local cybersecurity efforts, and have any been formed already [[2]]?
Dr. Hartono: Establishing CSIRTs at the local level is a crucial step in decentralizing cybersecurity capabilities. It empowers local governments to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber incidents more effectively. It also allows them to tailor their responses to the specific threats and vulnerabilities facing their communities. It ensures a faster reaction-time, and provides on the ground solutions.
Time.news: What practical advice would you give to our readers, both individuals and businesses, to enhance their cybersecurity posture?
Dr. Hartono: A few key things:
For Individuals: Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. Be wary of phishing emails and suspicious links as Mr. Sulistyo Budi has warned [[1]]. Keep your software updated.Educate yourself on common cyber threats.
For Businesses: Implement a robust cybersecurity framework.Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing.Train your employees on cybersecurity awareness. Invest in cybersecurity technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection. develop a complete incident response plan. Cybersecurity insurance is also worth considering these days.
Time.news: Dr. Hartono, thank you for sharing your insights with us.
Dr. Hartono: My pleasure. It’s a critical time for cybersecurity in Indonesia,and I hope this conversation contributes to a greater awareness and proactive approach to safeguarding our digital future.