Cyber security: CERT to raise Govt awareness

The Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) is stepping up efforts to raise cyber security awareness among Government officials, as part of a broader national push to safeguard the country’s digital space following recent incidents that resulted in the loss of millions in terms of money.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Senior Information Security Engineer at the CERT, Charuka Damunupola said that while implementing cyber security policies established for Government institutions and systems, any possible weaknesses in the system would be immediately connected to the Cyber Security Control Centre. This, he noted, would enable the identification of security threats at an early stage. He further added the National Security Strategy which was already launched may help mitigate such events. 

In addition, CERT is planning awareness programmes for Government officials in order to enlighten them on such threats.

When queried as to whether the recent incident in which US$ 2.5 million was lost from the General Treasury had resulted from weak security of the national cyber space, Damunupola explained that the mistake cannot be totally attributed to a cyber security lapse, noting the human factor and other loopholes in the process also played a role.

The National Cyber Security Strategy of 2025 to 2029, launched on 19 September 2025, aims to create a secure, resilient, and inclusive digital ecosystem. It focuses on enhancing regulatory frameworks, developing a skilled workforce, securing critical information infrastructure, and strengthening public-private partnerships to counter cyber threats.

However, multiple reports and experts have described Sri Lanka’s cyber security as facing significant challenges, with many classifying its status as low or vulnerable, particularly between 2024 and 2026.

Source - The Morning