Govt issues cyber-security alert over potential data breach – Kenya News Agency

The Government has raised alarm over a potential data breach into the systems of the Registrar of Companies in Kenya.

Following notification by the Kenya Registration Services Bureau (BRS), the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy has swiftly assembled a multi-agency team to investigate the matter and promptly prevent and safeguard any further data exfiltration.

Information and Digital Economy, Cabinet Secretary (CS), William Kabogo, in a press release, re-assured citizens that the multi-agency security team, in collaboration with international cyber-security agencies responsible for overseeing cyberspace governance, are dealing with the matter around the clock to mitigate the issue efficiently and effectively.

Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, Cabinet Secretary (CS), William Kabogo, (Left), flanked by the Ministry’s two Principal Secretaries for ICT and Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui(Centre), alongside, State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications PS, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani (Right) and other senior Ministry officials in a press conference at the Ministry Headquarters, Nairobi, where the Government issued a cyber-security alert on a potential data breach.

The CS assured Kenyans and all other stakeholders that the security and integrity of all government and digital assets is a top priority concern for the government.

“The Ministry is actively collaborating with international cyber-security agencies, responsible for overseeing cyberspace governance, to address and mitigate the issue effectively,” Kabogo pledged.

Noting that cyber-security is a shared responsibility by all stakeholders, the CS encouraged the public to adopt strict cyber-security measures that include ensuring their devices have the latest security updates and anti-virus software installed.

Additionally, the CS advised Kenyans to regularly update passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where possible, adding that the public needs to be cautious when sharing sensitive personal information online.

Kabogo, at the same time, urged Kenyans to verify the authenticity of websites and emails to avoid phishing attacks, adding that it is crucial to have regular backups of important data.

The CS said the Ministry, through its various agencies, will issue further guidance and advisories to assist the public in understanding best practices for data protection and privacy.

Members of the public are advised to report suspicious activities through the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy links that include: Email address: info@information.go.ke.

By Ian Chepkuto