How a Cyber Security Strategy protects our digital economy

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February 2, 2024 • 33 mins

The Australian Government released its Australian Cyber Security Strategy in 2023 with a vision to become a world leader in cyber security by 2030. Given the high-profile security breaches in recent years, this ambition seems not only timely but extremely urgent. Cyber security expert Professor Matt Warren joins Chris Berg to unpack our cyber security problem including our public policy responses, the geopolitical implications of cyber security and the challenges posed by technologies such as TikTok and AI.

Professor Matt Warren is the Director of the RMIT Centre of Cyber Security Research and Innovation and a Professor of Cyber Security at RMIT University. He is a researcher in the areas of Cyber Security and Computer Ethics and authored and co-authored over 300 books, book chapters, journal papers and conference papers. He has received numerous grants and awards from national and international funding bodies, such as AustCyber, Australian Research Council (ARC); CyberCRC, Engineering Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in the UK; National Research Foundation in South Africa and the European Union and is a Fellow of the Australian Computer Society.

Takeaways

National Cyber Security Strategies are important to coordinate resources and assets to protect the nation, society, critical systems and assets.
The Australian Government released its third standalone cyber security strategy in late 2023, which focuses on six cyber shields:

Strong businesses and citizens
Safe technology – how to build security
World-class threat sharing and blocking
Protected critical infrastructure
Sovereign capabilities
Resilient region and global leadership.

The geopolitical landscape plays a significant role in cyber security, with countries like China and Russia posing unique challenges.
The use of apps like TikTok raises concerns about data privacy and the potential manipulation of public opinion.
There is a tension between the need for greater cyber security controls and the push for end-to-end encryption, as both have implications for national security.
The rapid advancement of AI presents challenges in addressing misinformation and unethical use of the technology.
Monitoring the implementation of the cyber security strategy and preparing for unforeseen cyber security challenges are crucial for effective cyber security policy.

Episode recorded: 31 January 2023

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