Cyber Security Authority Launches National Cyber Security Awareness Month
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has launched the 2024 edition of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) with a focus on combating misinformation and disinformation in a digitally resilient democracy.
Speaking at the launch, CSA Director-General Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in building a resilient digital democracy.
“The spread of misinformation and disinformation poses a significant threat to democratic processes and societal stability, making it essential for all stakeholders to engage actively in safeguarding the integrity of our information ecosystems,” Dr. Antwi-Boasiako said.
The launch event was attended by dignitaries, including the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, and the Minister of Information, Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar.
*Statistics and Trends*
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako highlighted statistics and trends related to misinformation and disinformation, including:
– 94% of attacks against organizations targeted Elections Management Bodies (EMBs)
– 69% of disinformation initiators were unspecified social media users
– 33% of disinformation targeted electoral campaigns
– Increasing use of encrypted platforms and deep fakes
*Actions and Practices*
The CSA Director-General outlined actions and practices to mitigate misinformation and disinformation, including:
– Education and awareness campaigns
– Cooperation and collaboration with stakeholders
– Engagement with digital platform owners
– Development of strategies to counter misinformation/disinformation
*Legal Framework*
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako emphasized that spreading misinformation/disinformation is a crime under Ghanaian law, citing Section 208 (1) of the Criminal Code 1960 and Section 76(1) of the Communications Act, 2008.
*Call to Action*
The CSA Director-General called on all stakeholders, including the public, media, and civil society organizations, to actively engage in NCSAM and support efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation.
The CSA will be engaging in various activities throughout the month, including a “door-to-door” campaign and collaboration with faith-based organizations.
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako concluded by emphasizing the importance of fact-checking and regular cyber hygiene practices in preventing the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
