The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, has threatened to publish the names of institutions and persons providing cybersecurity services in the country without the necessary accreditation or license.
He pointed out that the operations of these defaulting cybersecurity institutions and professionals were in contravention of the CSA's Act 1038.
According to him, it is about time these defaulters were put in check and brought to book if their illegal actions continue.
Speaking at the licensing and accreditation ceremony of 51 CEs, CPs, and CSPs in Accra on Wednesday, July 7, 2024, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako noted that institutions that were licensed, in good standing, and following all cybersecurity laws would be applauded.
He stressed that his outfit was keen on discipline and believes in compliance, hence, the action to be taken to clamp down on the activities of defaulters.
The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority said, "We believe in discipline. We believe in compliance. I think we have allowed a certain time to engage, to support, to debate, and we are moving into a phase where we are going to take action, and those actions are provided within the law with a number of avenues available to us."
"We may begin publishing institutions in two ways; those who are in good standing to offer cybersecurity in the country. We will equally publish institutions who are offering cybersecurity services without a license, and those records will be there and nobody will challenge the Authority to remove them," he added.
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako further said, "The law makes it clear that you cannot offer cybersecurity services without a license or accreditation, so I think this is a warning to those who have not complied. We will publish them."
He remarked that the industry needs to be a formidable one, therefore, called on all stakeholders to help achieve this goal.
He also highlighted that the CSA was in collaboration with the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and other relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance with the guidelines pursuant to the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).
Once this is done, persons and institutions without a license will not be able to secure jobs in the public sector.
Industry forum to be launched during cybersecurity month this year
Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako announced the Cyber Security Authority's intention to establish a professional body for all certified and licensed cybersecurity professionals and establishments.
This Industry Forum, pursuant to Section 81(1) of Act 1038, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping policy and regulatory activities, as well as supporting industry standards.
SA/NOQ
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